Baritone Saxophonist B.J. Jansen recently released “Syracuse Connection” in early November. In this 4th album, B.J. is back with Pianist Frank Stagnitta, offering original compositions on a total of 5 out of 7 tracks (B.J. with 4, and Frank with 1, respectively). Born and raised in Cincinnati, and now living in New York City, Jansen’s talents extend beyond Musician. He’s the founder of the Jazz Development Group, a non-profit organization that offers free clinics on Jazz education to school-age children. He’s the host of his own radio show, “The Jazz Life”, and a number of other noble endeavours.
At first impression of hearing “Syracuse Connection”, one instantly takes note of the gratitude and appreciation B.J. and Frank have for the people in their lives.

With B.J. on Bari, Frank on Piano, Matt Vacanti on Bass, and Karl Sterling on Drums, the CD opens with the Jansen composed, “Blues for C.P.” Paying homage to the late Cecil Payne, legendary Baritone Saxophonist from Brooklyn, this number just “dives in” with a pleasant, up-beat tempo. B.J. keeps a very fluid rhythm on the Bari. Matt’s solo on Bass is skillfully played maintaining the tempo, with a very complimenting accompaniment by Frank. Halfway through the tune, Frank takes the forefront with a crisp-sounding improvised rhythm followed by a subtle, yet lively break on Karl’s drums. B.J. returns to the original melody, just before the sharp ending where the group makes a punctuated ending, leaving a lasting impression.

“Requiem for Bob” (named for Cincinnati Bassist Bob Bodley and also composed by Jansen) has a very relaxing approach with a smooth and delicate accompaniment. Frank’s work on the keys allows B.J. to paint a picture with a rolling solo through a journey of high and low notes. Frank then enters with a sensual interpretation, combined with a drizzling of light cymbal brushes from Karl. The group brings the tune to a flawless, unrippled landing as B.J. delves his bari to a dark, seductive fathom.

“Kay’s Great Day” is a Frank Stagnitta composition, and in contrast to “Requiem” is cheerful & energetic as if waking up to a warm, sunny day. Even Matt’s walking bass pattern through the melody seems to have a spring in its step. And with lively solos from B.J. and Frank, the title to this number is very fitting. The group has fun with this tune, demonstrating a sense of playfulness from start to finish.

Named after a Jazz Singer and good friend of B.J.’s, “A Rose for Noriko” is a gentle, soft number that is genuinely romantic in rhythm. The melody is cleanly executed through the bell of Jansen’s baritone. Frank’s dancing keys during his solo brings to mind the light swaying of an intimate slow dance in a dimly-lit hall.

In the well-known standard “Softly as in a Morning Sunrise”, this tune has a very straight-forward feel, with slight shades of swing rhythm underneath. Halfway through, B.J. rips into a skillfully frantic 16-bar improv. The number is tightly wrapped in a bow as Frank returns to the beginning straight-forward pattern on the keys.

“I want to talk about you” is delivered in an almost “serenading” fashion. The tune is romantic and honest, as a gentleman would court a lady of interest. Frank’s solo seamlessly picks up from B.J.’s carrying the same good-natured feeling of courtship; another tune appropriately titled for the sound.

The album closes with “Bybyana”, composed by B.J. The rhythm is smooth, and the tempo is moderately slow (sounds like an oxymoron, but its not) without any sense of dragging. The tune offers the impression of winding down for the day. Night has fallen. The brushes across the cymbal and snare are lulling; causing the listener to be ill-prepared for the groups’ unannounced, yet polished ending.

“Syracuse Connection” is a skillfully crafted collection of compositions. The collaborative sound is tight and clean. The sound of B.J.’s bari is very rich and flexible; lending a coarseness (when necessary) to the edgier, up-tempo tunes, and a delicate tenderness for the ballads.