Mike Wofford's 1966 debut as a leader is a bit of a mixed bag.
Wofford is accompanied by drummer John Guerin and bassist John Dorling. The pianist's approach to
Charlie Parker's "Steeplechase" is a bit unusual, lagging well behind the beat and dropping out at times before catching up to the rhythm section. His approach to "Night and Day" is somewhat angular, while he never gets around to
stating its well-known theme. "I Know Your Heart" shows an obvious debt to
Bill Evans (though
Evans never recorded it). The campy "Semi-Gymnopedie #1" is a loping gem that is somewhat humorous, while also showcasing Dorling. Presumably some of the pieces on this trio session are originals, though no composer credits are given. Overall, it's not bad for an initial effort, though this Epic LP will be hard to find. ~ Ken Dryden