This is a relatively straight-ahead set by the distinctive guitarist
Mike Stern, whose airy sound seems quite fresh in this context.
Stern performs three standards ("I Love You," "Giant Steps" and "Oleo"),
Jimi Hendrix's "Who Knows," and six originals, mostly in a trio with bassist
John Patitucci and drummer
Jack DeJohnette. Percussionist
Don Alias helps out on a few tracks; pianist
Gil Goldstein is on two, and tenor great
Michael Brecker nearly steals the show with three high-powered solos. Actually, the biggest surprise is "That's What You Think," a straight-ahead blues that has a very credible alto solo from guest
David Sanborn. All in all, an excellent outing. ~ Scott Yanow