Bassist Jim Guttmann, a 30-year veteran of the Klezmer Conservatory Band, is the leader on a swinging new album, Bessarabian Breakdown (Kleztone Records). He is joined on an eclectic range of tunes by some of his KCB mates and other luminaries (Alex Kontorovich on clarinet, Klezmatics trumpeter Frank London). The title song is a jazzy big band number, while other songs sparkle with a Sephardic, Brazilian or Hasidic tinge. Guttmann, whose background includes bluegrass and rock combos, produced the album, with Billy Novick, and the depth of talent and clever arrangements will reward repeated listening. — M.S.
Bessarabian Breakdown can be purchased from various digital outlets such as iTunes and in CD form at http://www.CD Baby.com as well as directly from Jim Guttmann through his website.