has been a well-kept secret, though he has recorded with , , and the ghost band, while also being involved as a jazz educator at Florida State. This is his first album as a leader, and unlike many youngsters who prematurely rush into studios to make try to make a name for themselves, is full of confidence, great musical ideas, and he's also more than willing to share the spotlight. His amusing New Orleans strut setting of 's incorporates both traditional and modern elements, with an occasional whistle added for fun, to spice up some of the intricate interplay. His muted horn is delightful in his infectious gospel tune utilizes the flumpet (a hybrid of trumpet and fluegelhorn, made popular by the late ) in his soulful which also showcases guitarist and soprano saxophonist . is a driving hard bop tune that would have been welcomed by other bands if it had only been available during the 1960s. There are several notable guests as well. adds his trumpet and a hilarious vocal to the likely improvised blues while adds and pianist joins his former sideman on piano on several tracks, while is also a welcome guest. Hopefully, won't wait too long for a follow-up recording to his excellent, long-awaited debut CD. ~ Ken Dryden