Straight Ahead

has had a long, distinguished career as a sideman, appearing on albums by , , and , among others, though he has had relatively sporadic opportunities to record as a leader. His second CD for indicates he may have found a regular outlet for his music, backed by the young trumpeter (who also records as a leader for the label and appeared on 's first CD), pianist , bassist , and drummer . Rather than choose typical approaches, such as heavy doses of originals or covers of familiar standards and jazz works, mixes it up with a few of each, plus less frequently played gems. 's has yet to enter the jazz canon, but the blend between the leader and in this soothing, easygoing piece suggests a relaxing walk along a sunny beach. is overshadowed by his better-known compositions, though the quintet makes the most of this long-forgotten hard bop vehicle. The originals also stand out. 's vibrant has a bit of an urban swagger, while 's upbeat blends soul-jazz with a Latin undercurrent that turns Afro-Cuban at its conclusion. 's potent solo in and playfulness in a brisk finale of also breathe new life into these familiar pieces. ~ Ken Dryden