Tim - I listened to Beatrice, Bessies Blues, and Four. Really enjoyed your playing. Great saxophone sound. I found your playing generally melodic and expressive. A lot of great bop patterns in there. I'd be very happy to play at the level of musicianship as you are on those, for sure.
As far as some of the other observations (mostly Wade's comments), I can appreciate the constructive criticism that was shared. And I'd say Wade and I come from pretty divergent directions about standards and mainstream jazz. In general, the music seemed a little on the safe or restrained side. With the selection of music, I was probably looking for a little more fireworks. Obviously, this is a matter of personal taste, and you might have wanted a more polished and refined sound.
A lot of exciting moments in Bessies Blues, felt like that could have been a great take, seemed like you "backed off" in a few places. Maybe taking some of the great motifs and developing those more fully before moving on to the next thing would have made for a more interesting ride...
On Four, you opened up a little more and took a little more risks which I liked. Very solid. I probably liked Beatrice the best, that is such a lovely tune. Still seemed like you could have pushed the envelope a little more...
The thing about standards, even jazz standards, is everyone plays and knows that material. If you want to really set yourself apart, you might want to come at these from a fresh direction. Otherwise, I'd do some original material. Even something as simple as taking an existing tune and coming up with your own melody. I love standards, but to make a name for yourself playing standard repetoire in the typical way...unless your Joe Lovano or someone like that, it might not be the easiest way to go.
