Stir My Soul

The Noah Preminger Group’s Haymaker – to be released by Palmetto Records in May 2013 – is the tenor saxophonist’s third album, following the highly praised Before the Rain (Palmetto, 2011) and Dry Bridge Road (Nowt, 2008). Jazz Review lauded Preminger’s “incisive musical instincts, a distinctive personal sound and an ability to write great tunes.” The New York Times said: “Mr. Preminger designs a different kind of sound for each note, an individual destiny and story.” Haymaker sees Preminger lead a kindred-spirit band of top-flight players: guitarist Ben Monder, double-bassist Matt Pavolka and drummer Colin Stranahan. The album showcases a brace of fresh Preminger compositions, along with one number penned by Monder, the Annie standard “Tomorrow” and a cover of jam-band rocker Dave Matthews’ “Don’t Drink the Water.” Blending atmosphere and energy, the Noah Preminger Group can remind a listener of the Motian/Frisell/Lovano trio in one tune and the Mark Turner/Kurt Rosenwinkel pairings in the next – even as this band has its own, individual soundprint. Haymaker is modern jazz that balances musical integrity with sensual allure.