Al Henderson Quartet

Originally known as The Al Henderson Quartet, the band was formed in 1993 featuring Alex Dean (saxes, oboe, bass clarinet), pianist Richard Whiteman, bassist Al Henderson and drummer Barry Romberg.  The band’s first recording – Dinosaur Dig (CRST CD103) was named one of the top three jazz recordings of 1995 by CBC Morningside.  “…the same type of joyful freedom as the music of Mingus and Monk. This set from Canada is highly recommended. ” (AllMusic.com) more information

“Bassist Al Henderson proves to be a very skillful songwriter/composer on this set. His compositions include tributes to Charles Mingus (“Mingus”) and Thelonious Monk (“Monk in Space”), plus other selections that have the same type of joyful freedom as the music of Mingus and Monk. Henderson, pianist Richard Whiteman, and drummer Barry Romberg all play well, but the solo star is easily Alex Dean, who is equally impressive on tenor, alto, bass clarinet, and oboe. Highlights include the jazz waltz “Andalusian Landscape” (which has a particularly strong melody), the heated “Fire and Ice,” the quirky “The Beggars’ Promenade,” and the complex “Hadronic Interactions.” This set from Canada is highly recommended.”