Forever marks the second release on the Criss Cross label by tenor saxophonist
Jimmy Greene. These eight tracks embrace both traditional and fresh arrangements guided by a spiritual nature. The interpretations of "Old Rugged Cross" and
Duke Ellington's "Come Sunday" are compelling, as is "You Make Me Feel Brand New," originally recorded by
the Stylistics and not necessarily thought of as a spiritual, but in this context the song fits perfectly. Of the five
Greene originals, "In Many Tongues" and "Power" are standouts given the overtly celebratory concept and execution backed by a powerful rhythm section of
Xavier Davis on piano,
John Benítez on bass, and
Jeff "Tain" Watts on drums,
Greene and his cohorts' reverence is obvious but thankfully not overbearing; they never forget that this is a jazz date and supposed to swing. ~ Al Campbell