Theodore Croker

There's certainly no shortage of young jazz musicians vying for attention in New York. The sizeable amount of fresh-out-of-college idealists scouring the city's jam-sessions makes one wonder how a young tenor saxophonist like Zack Lipton could ever stand above the crowd and be heard. The answer may lie in artistic integrity, avoiding shifting trends and remaining true to the essence of the jazz genre. Lipton's debut as a leader, First Steps covers all of the above, resulting in an enjoyable, modern jazz release. The disc also features trumpeter Theo Crocker, pianist Tobin Chodos, bassist Jeff Hanley and drummer Craig Weinrib.

Photo by Gabrielle Lipton