has been active on the West Coast jazz scene for some time, though is just his third recording as a leader. The guitarist is joined by bassist (who worked with during most of the 1970s) and drummer (who recorded with and worked with a host of other greats) for this easygoing trio date. ' interpretations of standards aren't groundbreaking, yet they swing nicely. showcases his considerable bop chops, while his engaging bossa nova setting of adds a hip vamp at the end of each chorus. He switches to nylon-string acoustic guitar for an intimate solo interpretation of Bop fans will enjoy ' setting of the late ' intricate bop vehicle an overlooked gem that is infrequently recorded. Among the guitarist's originals, the playful boppish and the infectious Latin-flavored leave the most lasting impressions. ~ Ken Dryden