Mike,Allen Dialectic CD

'This impressive entry by Vancouver-based tenor and soprano saxophonist Allen was recorded in January (2003) with bassist Paul Rushka and Seattle drummer Julian MacDonough. You get nine long pieces, an hour of strong compositions and splendid interpretation. Allen sets high standards in the headlong rush of his opener 'Nette's Cept', with it's long improvisation lines, his swinging, rhythmic sense complemented by strident drumming explorations and then clever interaction. Allen's big tones stand out, especially on the bluesy 'Simone'. Taut and tight phrasing are featured on a bracing take on Coltrane's 'Bessie's Blues', while the soprano fares beautifully on his 'One Side Of A Circle' and the sweet 'Every time We Say Goodbye'. His breathy tenor a la Ben Webster is a delight on 'Round Midnight' and elsewhere. He's certainly strong on melody with a power sound mindful of Sonny Rollins.' -Geoff Chapman (Toronto Star)

1. Nette's Cept 2. Simone 3. Everytime We Say Goodbye 4. Bessie's Blues 5. One Side of A Circle 6. 'Round Midnight 7. Until It's Over 8. Wiser Than I 9. Your Kind Brings Joy