Zembla VariationsBrooklyn Jazz Underground ****

Apart from penning a set of vigorously fresh compositions, the best thing New York bassist Josh Ginsburg has done for his debut release is put together a group that plays them with the sense of adventure they deserve. George Colligan, a pianist well-schooled in the jazz tradition but with the imagination to take it somewhere new, finds excitement in every tune without ever seeming to showboat. Meanwhile, Israeli saxophonist Eli Degibri, whose credits include a two-year stint with Herbie Hancock, offers eloquent commentary on Ginsburg's long and winding melodies, and drummer Rudy Royston makes the whole thing fizzle with an energy that is hard to ignore. This is top- drawer acoustic jazz from the still-swinging heart of the tradition. joshginsburg.com