In spite of a long jazz career,
Robert Irving III has not recorded nearly enough as a leader. He is an alum of
Miles Davis' fusion band (between 1979 and the trumpeter's death in 1991), though the pianist has since emphasized acoustic settings for most of these sessions, with either
Buster Williams or
Marlene Rosenberg on bass, plus drummer
Yussef Ernie Adams. "New Momentum" lulls the listener with a soft introduction before changing gears into a swirling post-bop mode. The hip arrangement of "We Three Kings" was created as a free download, but the CD's producer wisely insisted that it be included as well, proof positive that good musicians can find new ways to explore even familiar, centuries-old melodies. "Primordial Waters" was inspired by an improvisation that was transcribed and arranged for the trio, the overdubbed opening sound effects (including water waves and a chant) setting up the tune nicely, which also showcases
Buster Williams' matchless arco bass.
Irving reworks
Davis' well-known "Seven Steps to Heaven" by adding a dazzling disguised introduction before finally revealing his intentions as the rhythm section joins him. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden