Big-toned tenor saxophonist
Scott Hamilton leads a swinging small group session that concentrates mostly on songs that didn't receive much attention in the 1990s. "Answer Me (My Love)" is a potent ballad feature for the leader that reveals the influence of
Coleman Hawkins and
Ben Webster, while
Hamilton also has fun with lively riff tunes like his own "Rhythm Riff #127," and
Hawkins' "Stuffy." Trumpeter
Greg Gisbert is outstanding throughout the date, while trombonist
Joel Helleny and guitarist
Duke Robillard only appear on three tracks each, but make valuable contributions with their solos. This delightful CD stands up well to repeated listening, and is one of
Scott Hamilton's best recordings. ~ Ken Dryden