"Surge" is a captivating post-bop jazz album by the New York Jazz Quartet, released in 1977 under the Enja Horst Weber label. This studio session, recorded on February 19th, 1977, at Sound Ideas in NYC, brings together a stellar lineup featuring Frank Wess on flute and sax, Roland Hanna on piano, George Mraz on bass, and Richard Pratt on drums. Pratt, though relatively obscure in the jazz recording scene, adds a unique touch to the album's rhythmic landscape.
The album spans seven tracks, including the title piece "Surge," and other notable compositions like "Placitude," "Big Bad Henry," and "87th Street." With a total runtime of 41 minutes, "Surge" offers a concise yet rich exploration of post-bop jazz, showcasing the quartet's exceptional musicianship and dynamic interplay.
Frank Wess's versatile woodwind work, Roland Hanna's expressive piano playing, George Mraz's solid bass lines, and Richard Pratt's distinctive drumming coalesce to create a cohesive and engaging listening experience. "Surge" stands as a testament to the New York Jazz Quartet's collaborative artistry and their contribution to the post-bop genre.
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