Owen Howard assembled an ideal band to interpret his compositions, including the twin saxophonists Andrew Rathburn and
John O'Gallagher, pianist
Gary Versace, and bassist
John Hebert. Beginning with the constantly shifting "Derailer" (a reference to shifting gears on a bike), the drummer often implies the rhythm while playing a bit off center. Three different versions of the African-flavored "Kalimba" feature Rathburn and
O'Gallagher on soprano sax, each has a distinctive sound even with the same melody. "Sonny Side Up," a tribute to
Sonny Rollins, opens with a Caribbean-like solo by the leader, with the tenors dancing around this engaging theme.
John Coltrane's "Giant Steps" receives a fresh treatment, played in a rather laid-back setting with
Howard's off-center drumming keeping it on edge. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden