The Bouncer

Continuing in his tradition of stellar label albums, pianist 's 2011 release, , features the journeyman hard bopper leading a fine quintet of like-minded individuals. Once again featuring the talents of saxophonist , who appeared on 's 2009 effort, , also showcases trombonist , as well as longtime associate bassist , drummer , and percussionist . This is urbane, no-nonsense, straight-ahead acoustic jazz, the kind that has based his career on since the '60s. To these ends, listeners get the jaunty, midtempo opener, as well as the lilting pretty waltz "Halo" and the -inspired "Willie's Groove," which finds both and showing their improvisational stuff. Elsewhere, and company tackle 's "Lament"; rework 's "Underground Memoirs" from 1996's into a stylish, roiling Latin-tinged number; and keep the Latin vibe going on Trinidad native ' grooving "Got to Get to the Island." ~ Matt Collar