When Justin Chart’s alto saxophone takes center stage with Peter Xifaras and The Budapest Symphony Orchestra, it’s a profound demonstration of melodic power. His playing, often described as possessing a warm, melancholic, and utterly unique sound, cuts through the rich orchestral tapestry with powerful control and clean energy. Chart doesn’t merely play notes; he weaves intricate narratives, moving seamlessly between the fiery intensity of bebop runs and tender, introspective melodic statements. This dynamic range, coupled with his ability to imbue each phrase with deep emotion, creates a sound that is both technically brilliant and profoundly moving, allowing his saxophone to sing with a bluesy fervor that can transport listeners.

What truly sets Chart apart is his masterful approach to improvisation, which takes on a new dimension when set against the compositions of Peter Xifaras and the grandeur of the Budapest Symphony Orchestra. Unlike many who build improvisations upon pre-written melodies, Chart frequently creates his music entirely in the moment, starting with just a key and a tempo. This spontaneous artistry, when harmonized with the carefully arranged compositions of a full orchestra, results in a sublime experience. His saxophone lines, at once free and accessible, engage in an intuitive call-and-response with the orchestral sections, forging a musical dialogue that sounds as meticulously planned as it is creatively spontaneous.

The combination of Chart’s expressive alto saxophone and a symphony orchestra creates a cinematic and absorbing soundscape. His compositions, whether studio-recorded or performed live, carry a mysterious aura, blending tight chord progressions with ethereal themes. The result is music that feels intensely personal, yet resonates universally, inviting the audience to embark on an emotional journey. It’s a testament to Chart’s virtuosity that he can seamlessly merge his explosive, intricate playing with the disciplined power of a classical ensemble, producing beautiful melodies that are both sophisticated and deeply soulful.

Doug Turner

Jazz historian