Fairclough's compositional and ensemble styles are reminiscent of Keith Jarrett's Scandinavian quartet from the '70s. The centerpiece of that band -- aside from Jarrett's accessible yet challenging tunes -- was the saxophonist Jan Garbarek. Tenor player Tim Whitehead has nowhere near so distinctive a voice as Garbarek, although he does have a compelling sense of urgency and vulnerability. Fairclough's compositions are brightly melodic, his drumming rough-edged and energetic. His technique lacks suavity, but it makes up in ambition and enthusiasm what it lacks in grace. Guitarist Mike Walker is a similar sort of player -- his chops are well-developed but not slick; rather, there's a sort of seat-of-his-pants quality typical of players who value spontaneity. The band's sound is a bit crude, but not in an unattractive way. They'll not win any awards for smoothness, but their gritty attitude scores points, and their sense of adventure is palpable. Fairclough's group is not really up to its model. Then again, the Jarrett/Garbarek group was one of the great ensembles of the past half-century. Fairclough's players sound a bit unformed (and perhaps even under-rehearsed; they're tackling some tough material). Taken on its own terms, however, they acquit themselves well. ~ Chris Kelsey, Rovi