After years making fiercely original trio music with bassist Gregg August and drummer Rudy Royston, NYC-based tenor saxophonist JD Allen had one goal in mind with Love Stone: sustained and lyrical beauty. With the same rhythm section—and guitarist Liberty Ellman adding harmonic color and insightful solos—Allen plays only ballads, showcasing his warm, full-bodied tone first and foremost. The sound is sumptuous, and the tune choices (including the folk song “Come All Ye Fair and Tender Ladies”) are fresh and unexpected.