Standard Time, Vol. 2: Intimacy Calling in Bloomington, MN

Wynton Marsalis
's second of three standard albums was actually released after the third volume. On most of the selections, the brilliant trumpeter is heard in excellent form with his quartet (comprised of pianist
Marcus Roberts
, bassist
Reginald Veal
or
Robert Hurst
and either
Herlin Riley
Jeff Watts
on drums); tenorman
Todd Williams
helps out on
"I'll Remember April"
and altoist
Wes Anderson
is also added to
"Crepuscule with Nellie."
Marsalis
's tone really makes the ballads worth hearing, and his unusual choice and placement of notes keeps the music stimulating. This mostly bop-oriented set is rounded off by a jaunty version of
"Bourbon Street Parade."
~ Scott Yanow