This 2018 recording of "I Hear a Rhapsody" opens Sam Dillon's album Out in the Open, which marked a significant early statement from the New York-based tenor saxophonist. Written by George Fragos, Jack Baker, and Dick Gasparre in 1940, the tune follows a 32-bar AABA form in E-flat and is played here at a medium-up swing tempo of approximately 187 BPM. Dillon takes three choruses on tenor saxophone, establishing the warm, full-bodied tone and melodically driven improvisation style that characterize his playing. Pianist Peter Zak, a seasoned veteran of the New York jazz scene known for his crisp articulation and harmonic depth, follows with three authoritative choruses that push the energy higher. Bassist Yoshi Waki contributes a single chorus of acoustic bass improvisation, rounding out a well-paced set of solos. The tune has been a jazz standard for decades, notably recorded by John Coltrane, and Dillon's version demonstrates his comfort with the bebop tradition while hinting at the more personal musical identity he would continue to develop. The trio's rapport is evident throughout, reflecting the kind of intimate musical communication that defines small-group jazz at its best.
