At first, the music of
Bob Reynolds and his basic sound seem pretty similar in spots to
Michael Brecker, being technically skilled, complex, and yet somewhat accessible. Later in this CD,
Reynolds hints at the soul of
Stanley Turrentine when he simplifies his message. Chances are that none of his ten originals will catch on as future standards, although they have their appealing moments, but the playing by
Reynolds and his quintet/sextet (which includes
Aaron Goldberg mostly on electric piano, guitarist
Mike Moreno, and two appearances by steel guitarist David Soler) is first-rate and creative within the modern mainstream. An impressive debut overall. ~ Scott Yanow