Christian Casolary / Mike Allen
Within these covers lies a treasure trove of original compositions awaiting your enjoyment. Enhanced by personal recollections and photos, this is more than just a comprehensive jazz fake book, it’s an artist’s lifework that vibrates at the signature frequency of Mike Allen.Spare, elegant, melodic, soaring, fierce-Mike Allen has arrived as the country’s top jazz saxophonist. Echoes of John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman and Joe Lovano resonate through Allen’s work, but the Vancouver-based saxman has channeled them into a voice of his own, by turns soulful, intense, lush and dynamic.-Ottawa CitizenAn original in the making-one of a half dozen interesting Canadians to watch.-Globe And MailSongs that imply a spiritual search-an ideal backdrop for Allen’s broad, brawny solo.-DownBeatSoulful genius-Vancouver-based saxophonist Mike Allen is a local jazz treasure.-Victoria Times-ColonistAn accomplished musician who has studied Coltrane in depth and forged a style that is fresh and vital.-Jazz Journal InternationalMike Allen’s world is well worth a visit.-The Jazz Report
