Review of Blue Function Offbeat Magazine, October 2004 By Geraldine Wyckoff Saxophonist Christian Winther reveals his affection for the blues and tradition on this his sophomore release. The Denmark-born, New Orleans resident began playing classic jazz on clarinet before switching to tenor and incorporating modern styles. Along with trombonist Vincent Gardner, pianist Fredrick Sanders, bassist Roland Guerin and drummer Herlin Riley, Winther utilizes these elements. The disc opens with a straight-ahead, beboppin’ attitude on the saxophonist’s “High Ground,” one of four originals. Nothing fancy here, just a fine combo playing good music with Winther standing out front blowing hard. His next self- penned number, the slinky “The Redeemer” takes the listener back to dark, smoky roadhouses where dancers would slow grind to this style of blues. Gardner’s greasy trombone reinforces the mood. Winther steps further back in time with the surprising addition of “When it’s Sleepy Time Down South.” While the familiar classic is taken on in the tradition, the musicians’ modern leanings do turn up. Winther and company also celebrate the works of Thelonious Monk by offering two of the composer/pianist’s tunes, “Reflections” and “Worry Later.” Riley, a drummer hugely adept in all styles, opens the latter with a signature drum slur that he produces by sliding a wet finger over the drumhead. Later he and Sanders team well in evoking Monk’s rhythmic explorations. The band returns to today for Winther’s “Word of the Deacon.” Uptempo, intricate in arrangement and offering plenty of room for soloing, this album highlight makes for a fiery farewell.