This is an easy set to enjoy. Guitarist
Ximo Tebar has a style in the tradition of
Grant Green,
Wes Montgomery, and early
George Benson without copying his predecessors. Teaming up with organist
Dr. Lonnie Smith and drummer
Idris Muhammad,
Tebar performs standards and basic originals in a relaxed, bluish, and swinging fashion. Veteran altoist
Lou Donaldson comes close to stealing the show during his three appearances ("Laura," "Midnight Creeper," and "Blues Walk"), but
Tebar remains confident and rises to the occasion. Fans of mid-'60s soul-jazz organ dates will find much to enjoy here. ~ Scott Yanow