Although released on CD in 1995, this is one of drummer
Billy Higgins' earliest sessions as a leader, recorded in 1980. Leading a quartet including
Cedar Walton,
Bob Berg, and bassist Tony Dumas, he steps to the forefront with an explosive solo in the midst of
Walton's hard bop vehicle "Plexus," while he sticks to brushes (until
Berg returns) in the rendition of "Lover Man," which showcases the rest of the band. The quartet takes
Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Sabiá" away from its bossa nova roots, offering a driving post-bop arrangement.
Berg contributed "Amazon," an infectious tune built upon a simple riff that opens with
Higgins alone. The tense introduction to the bittersweet Brazilian ballad "Estate" sets up
Berg's heartfelt solo, backed by
Walton's thoughtful piano and
Higgins' whispering brushes. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden