On the new Small Places (ECM) the bassist and his crew find ways to have knotty themes tumble with a surprising ease. That kind of aplomb makes complex music sound much more natural, much more seductive, and from the jitters of Tim Berne’s sax to drummer Gerald Cleaver’s poetic rattle, each tune is lined with a deep confidence. Meaning they’re really starting to sound like a band.
7:30 pm & 9:30 pm $20. Jazz Standard. 116 East 27 Street.
