Trumpeter
Greg Gisbert is not quite as well known as his sidemen, but he keeps up with them during this advanced hard bop date. The highlights include the original medium-tempo blues "Chapulta Walk," a revival of
Thad Jones' "Fingers" (a romp over rhythm changes) with
Gisbert being effective on muted trumpet, and tenor saxophonist
Chris Potter really cutting loose and eating up the chord changes on
Charlie Parker's "Segment" and
Thelonious Monk's "Played Twice." All of the musicians play at their expected high levels, with altoist
Steve Wilson and pianist John Campbell also having their strong moments. This set is easily recommended to fans of modern straight-ahead jazz. ~ Scott Yanow