CD Reviews: Wadada Leo Smith/The Great Lakes Suite (TUM CD041-2) The trumpeter and composer has produced several remarkable recordings recently, but none better than this by his newest ensemble, The Great Lakes Quartet. Henry Threadgill on tenor sax and flutes, John Lindberg bass, Jack DeJohnette drums and Smith himself spur each other along wonderfully across the six extended compositions. The double CD has TUM’s usual detailed notes and photos.

Kalle Kalima & K-18/Buñuel de Jour (TUM CD038) This is the third collaboration between the Finnish guitarist and the trio K-18 whose unique line-up comprises alto sax, quarter-tone accordion and double bass/percussion. As the title suggests it’s again inspired by cinema with a variety of moods. Combining avant-garde rock and punk with extensive jazz improvisation it’s wide ranging, mercurial and, I think, quite compelling. tumrecords.com

Kenny Wheeler/Songs for Quintet (ECM 470 4653) On his last appearance at the Sage Kenny Wheeler was clearly very frail. This, his last recording, was produced I’m sure out of love and respect for his talent. The accompanying musicians, Stan Sulzmann tenor sax, John Parricelli guitar, Chris Laurence bass and Martin France drums, all long-time friends of the flugel player and composer, combine sensitively to support him through this session. ecmrecords.com