Cinnamon Flower

by Scott YanowThis is a somewhat unusual album, featuring tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse (best known for his 1959-70 period with Thelonious Monk) performing mostly obscure Brazilian songs with rhythm sections that are sometimes closer to funky fusion and R&B than to bop. Rouse plays well; among his sidemen are up-and-coming trumpeter Claudio Roditi and trombonist Clifford Adams. Not essential by any means, this offbeat item does have its enjoyable moments.