David Becker, whose earlier records with his trio were fusion-oriented, surprisingly plays five straight-ahead jazz standards on this set. Teamed as usual with his drummer brother
Bruce Becker and bassist
Tom Lilly,
Becker sometimes recalls
Jim Hall and
Pat Metheny a little, but mostly displays his own flexible sound. His seven originals are always in the post-bop mold, featuring strong melodies, logical improvisations, and subtle surprises. All in all, this set serves as an excellent introduction to the early 21st century music of
David Becker, and it is easily recommended.