by Scott YanowThe brilliant saxophonist James Carter and his quartet (which also includes pianist Craig Taborn, bassist Jaribu Shahid and drummer Tani Tabbal) welcome some of Carter's musical heroes as guests throughout Conversin' with the Elders. Carter matches wits with the eccentric trumpeter Lester Bowie on Freereggaehibop and the often-hilarious Atitled Valse; he also features the legendary (but rarely recorded) Detroit altoist Larry Smith on Parker's Mood, showcases Count Basie veterans Harry Sweets Edison and Buddy Tate on two swing standards apiece (Tate's work on clarinet during Blue Creek is memorable), and interacts with baritonist Hamiet Bluiett on Naima and an Anthony Braxton march. Switching between tenor, alto, baritone and bass clarinet, Carter makes each of his guests feel at home while pushing them to stretch themselves. A consistently colorful and generally swing-oriented set.