We've grown accustomed to his face, sax player Steve Treseler had performed in the KNKX studios as a sideman and as a mentor to School of Jazz combos, and his own dynamic "In Motion" quartet was a highly anticipated session for us all.
Treseler talked about his early mentors, including sax great Jerry Bergonzi, who taught his young student to love practicing as a way to celebrate a love for your instrument and the intimate act of playing what you feel.
The "In Motion" quartet explored Treseler's personal side with his beautiful original tune "Renewal" to begin his performance on KNKX. He's a team player, moving to the side after his soloing to allow his bandmates to shine in the spotlight as well.
The Charlie Haden ballad "First Song" was a wonderful feature for bassist Michael Glynn, and guitarist Chris Spencer was no shrinking flower on guitar, with Remy Morritt's sensitive drumming guiding the way.
Uptempo finisher, Steve Swallow's "Bite Your Grandmother", came with a story of early disagreements about the meaning of jazz. The quartet displayed primary jazz ingredients - communication between musicians, an improvisation that showed the personalities of the players, and a love for beautiful melodies.
On the first day of the KNKX Spring Fund Drive, Treseler was effusive in his praise for our station and the community it both serves and honors. He even made a pledge between songs - it's that easy! Big thanks to Steve and his band for another reminder of how much jazz talent we have to enjoy in the Northwest.
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