Between 1965's and 1968's , was consumed with his duties as part of , who happened to be at their creative and popular peak during those three years. When did return to a leadership position on , it was clear that he had assimilated not only the group's experiments, but also many ideas initially sketched out with . Like , the album is laid-back, melodic, and quite beautiful, but there are noticeable differences between the two records. 's melodies and themes have become simpler and more memorable, particularly on the title track, but that hasn't cut out room for improvisation. Instead, he has found a balance between accessible themes and searching improvisations that work a middle ground between and . Similarly, the horns and reeds are unconventional. He has selected three parts -- ' fluegelhorn, ' bass trombone, 's alto flute -- with unusual voicings, and he uses them for tonal texture and melodic statements, not solos. The rhythm section of bassist and drummer keeps things light, subtle, and forever shifting, emphasizing the hybrid nature of 's original compositions. But the key to is in 's graceful, lyrical playing and compositions, which are lovely on the surface and provocative and challenging upon closer listening. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine