Album: James Morton's Porkchop, Don't You Worry...(Fresh Ground)

Impressive debut from young Bristol alto saxophonist (and Andy Sheppard-protégé) James Morton and his down-home quartet, with the excellent Dan Moore on Hammond organ.

Rather than reproduce familiar David Sanborn-isms, Morton goes back to the generic, street-funk source, with strutting and stuttering solos that suggest Hank Crawford or Oliver Sain. Denny Ilett's guitar can be rocky as well as funky, which isn't necessarily a plus-point but the drumming of Ian Matthews carries a satisfying thump.