*2022 stock. In process of stocking* 'Fred Anderson is from Chicago, a city like Detroit known for the strength of its music scene. High time that he was shown in the light of this great quartet session, Birdhouse. Anderson’s association with Hamid Drake has germinated here with Anderson’s quartet giving a searching performance of his [Anderson’s] compositions. Birdhouse reflects that kind of powerful play where the roots are so strong, the music can evolve farther without losing the thread of its exploration. This level of playing is uncommon in jazz though is often seen in the work of artists linked to the AACM and their European counterparts. His quartet builds up some steam throughout the opener ("Birdhouse"), but it is the ballad ("Bernice") that best shows this bands expressiveness. Drake and bassist Harrison Bankhead fuel this session with resourceful work that is crafty in the best way. Jim Baker on piano has a tough act to follow but comes through smiling, his lines cascading under the tenor in equal shades blues and modern. The piano like the saxophone is an instrument where the level of creative development is so high, a performer has to really define for themselves where they are going, to not get lost in the flood. Baker carves out some rich moments on this CD, anticipating Anderson’s moves and feeding the high level of energy. Fiery playing on "Waiting for MC" by all concerned.' - Steve Vickery, Coda Magazine