In addition to being one of the top tenor saxophonists of his generation, has developed quite a following in Japan, as evidenced by his series of recordings for the label. These 2004 sessions with pianist , bassist , and drummer are much in the mold of 's album of the early '60s. His rich, big-toned tenor is rhapsodic as he explores a number of timeless ballads, though more than a few have pretty much fallen out of favor among jazz musicians in the 21st century. Particularly welcome are his explorations of two gems by the late jazz pianist , while the leader's fits in perfectly with the more established pieces. is played in two separate versions, the first being a bit laid-back, the latter at a brisk tempo with adding an enticing vamp. The bluesy treatment of is strangely credited to , while 's shimmering take of 's gorgeous is an obvious highlight. ~ Ken Dryden