‘Sangam & Friends’ Review: Charles Lloyd Commemorates a Musical Union
When Charles Lloyd rose to stardom with his bestselling 1967 album “Forest Flower,” the saxophonist and flutist was a bold young renegade who seemed wise beyond his years. Now, at age 88, he is a revered elder, a guru to younger bandmates, and no less bold. His tenor saxophone’s tone grows more appealingly buttery with each passing year, yet his phrasing has lost none of its urgency. His flute playing remains marvelously transparent and now projects an increasing feeling of fullness. His bands suggest both musical challenge and serenity. He is as singular a presence as jazz knows.