Trumpeter
John Swana's Philadelphia hard bop roots are clearly evident on this set of originals that takes definite cues from the distinctive sound of
Art Blakey's
Jazz Messengers in bygone days. The title is not a reference to
Rahsaan Roland Kirk's classic album, but a concept suggested to the leader by organist
Trudy Pitts. With a solid, burnished, and clear tone,
Swana and his sextet -- featuring twin tenor saxes in
Eric Alexander and
Grant Stewart -- swing strongly through original mainstream jazz that is lyrically tuneful and harmonically rich. Where tracks like "Wilbert" (for ex-Philadelphia Eagles NFL running back Wilbert Montgomery) and "Road Trippin'" reflect that fleet-foot hard bop image, others tend to be effortlessly bluesy or soulful. This simple but direct approach is a rarity in contrast with modern mainstream, complex jazz, but
Swana is not so much looking back as he is keeping the straight-ahead home fires burning. ~ Michael G. Nastos