Keter Betts' third solo release finds him in the company of his usual musical cohorts, as well as renowned singer
Etta Jones.
Betts and company run through a program of mostly well-worn standards, but add just enough spice to keep things interesting. The leader himself takes lead on the first chorus of "Makin' Whoppee," holding his round notes as long as the rhythm permits, creating a suspended feeling. Jones (always at her best on blues numbers) gives a slow, memorable reading of "Man I Love," and drummer Dennis Mackrel's hastily written "Spur of the Moment," penned the night before the show, keeps everyone on their toes. Most memorable is
Betts' own "Pinky's Waltz," a stirring melody written for his late wife Mildred, and featuring some fine playing from Weldon and of course,
Betts himself. ~ John Duffy