For this recording by drummer Dick Berk & the Jazz Adoption Society, he features an excellent rhythm section (pianist
Tad Weed, guitarist
Dan Faehnle, and bassist
Phil Baker) plus both slide trombonist
Andy Martin and valve trombonist
Mike Fahn. The two 'bones trade off often, harmonize together, and consistently battle to a draw on a variety of straight-ahead material, including
Wayne Shorter's "One by One," "Moanin'" (during which
Weed does a close imitation of
Bobby Timmons), and "Blues for Dogs."
Tad Weed is showcased on "Lester Left Town," displaying a great deal of potential. And behind these younger players,
Dick Berk swings happily. Virtually every one of the albums by his various bands is easily recommended to straight-ahead jazz fans, and this highly appealing effort is no exception. ~ Scott Yanow