(Kabocha Records)

Trumpeter and composer Ian Carey has returned with an ambitious new recording that succeeds in its effort. Interview Music: The Ian Cary Quintet +1 is a fantastic suite that sees some of Cary’s most adventurous writing matched with truly outstanding performances. The musical opus takes its name from a term that the late Mulgrew Miller used for writing that seemed overly conceptual, a term that Carey grabbed onto for his endeavor. While the production is one of some range, it is accessible, even as weaves and winds its way forward. Carey is joined again by his great quintet of Adam Shulman on piano, Kasey Knudsen on alto sax, Fred Randolph on bass and Jon Arkin on drums. Sheldon Brown on bass clarinet is the “+1” in the endeavor. Cary’s writing affords each of his fellow players many moments to exhibit their depth of talent, and in the process, allows the entire project to shine.