Also this issue: The Core The Apples in Stereo find their seeds. -A.D. Amorosi Review: Relache Ensemble -Peter Burwasser Suite Spot -Peter Burwasser on Classical Hear Herre -Patrick Rapa Reviews -A.D. Amorosi, Andrew Milner and John Vettese Napalm Death -Paul Burress Devendra Banhart -Sam Adams The Cleveland Orchestra -Lou Camp

February 6-12, 2003

musicpicks

Greg Tardy

Never mind his name -- the time is right for Greg Tardy. The saxophonist-clarinetist has been just outside the limelight for nearly a decade now, backing the likes of Tom Harrell, Elvin Jones and Andrew Hill. Anyone who¹s heard him play in those groups can attest to his earnest, very physical approach to improvisation. What may come as a surprise is Tardy¹s keen skills as a frontman and composer. Give 2001¹s

(Palmetto) a spin and you'll hear, well, abundant evidence of a mind behind the muscle. Obviously, the reedman has his influences -- it's impossible to see him in action without thinking, at least momentarily, of John Coltrane. But there's enough originality in the mix to keep things fresh. Here, Tardy's band (pianist Xavier Davis, bassist Sean Conly and drummer Jaimeo Brown) will be joined by Harrell, on trumpet and flugelhorn. For those wondering where hard-bop has been heading, this is a can't-miss.

Sat., Feb. 8, 8 p.m., $10-$20, Painted Bride Art Center, 230 Vine St., 215-925-9914.

—Kyle Parker