This debut release by Japanese guitarist Akio Sasajima features the top-notch tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, along with then rising young pianist Renee Rosnes, bassist Kelly Sill, and drummer Joel Spencer, though it wasn't issued until 1993. Together they burn through the title track and "Alone Together," while "Peace" gets a spacious and lyrical treatment. The leader also composed three originals, including "Wheeler Dealer," a sassy strut, and "Eyes of the Dragon," a choice post-bop vehicle. Only "Seven Souls," a dull contemporary piece with synthesizer, electric bass, and a wordless vocal featuring a completely different supporting cast, seems drastically out of place on an otherwise excellent CD.
© Ken Dryden /TiVo