"The Water Is Wide." Bunnett, an inventive player on soprano saxophone and flute, also happens to be an unusually creative bandleader, drawing inspired, innovative, yet accessible performances from pianist Don Pullen, trumpeter Larry Cramer, vocalists Sheila Jordan and Jeanne Lee, among others. The bracing harmonies and exotic textures of "Elements of Freedom," the incantatory quality of "Time Again" (both Bunnett originals), the stunning flute solo on Rahsaan Roland Kirk's "Serenade to a Cuckoo" and the unusual, ethereal approach to music of Thelonious Monk make this one of the most original and alluring recordings of the year.