This is one of trombonist
Michael Davis' strongest sets as a leader. Doubling on euphonium, he is matched with Bill Reichenbach (on bass trombone and euphonium), pianist
Joey Calderazzo, bassist
John Patitucci, and drummer Will Kennedy. None of
Davis' ten originals are destined to become standards, but the advanced pieces showcase the two trombonists quite well.
Davis and Reichenbach (who was an early hero of his) sound inspired by each other's presence, although it is a pity that a few standards were not included in the repertoire so they could just jam in spots. The music is straight-ahead and mostly fairly complex, challenging the trombonists, who both rise to the occasion. ~ Scott Yanow