On his third CD, vibraphonist
Joe Locke leads a solid quartet which includes pianist
Kenny Werner, bassist
Ron McClure, and drummer
Ronnie Burrage.
Locke's virtuosity on his instrument is demonstrated throughout the date. The opening medley begins with a solo by the leader of "Masada" (an introspective piece written by a friend of his, saxophonist
Danny Wilensky) and the rhythm section joins him as he segues into a brisk take of the waltz "Summernight." Tenor saxophonist
Larry Schneider is added on several tracks, including a dark but swinging take of "All of You" and a turbocharged run through "You Say You Care."
Locke also wrote several originals, including the unpredictable "Smoke and Mirrors," which was originally written as an introduction to
Miles Davis' "Nardis," and a brief duet with Werner, "Heart of Nowhere." This 1990 release was an early indicator of
Joe Locke's arrival on the jazz scene, which was followed by many additional strong studio sessions as the 20th century drew to a close. Post-bop fans should consider this CD an essential acquisition. ~ Ken Dryden