This CD could have been titled "It's About Time!" It is hard to believe that trumpeter
Carl Saunders, a fixture in Los Angeles since he moved from Las Vegas in 1984, had never before led his own record date. A superb bop-based improviser whether featured in big bands, with
the Dave Pell Octet, or in smaller combos,
Saunders has long been in demand for jazz sessions. For this release, he is showcased in a quartet with pianist
Roger Kellaway, bassist
Buster Williams, and drummer Santo Savino; two numbers add the tenor of Jerry Pinter and trombonist Andy Martin.
Saunders gets the opportunity to stretch out on four standards, five originals (either by him or Scott Tibbs), and -- best of all -- an unusual and exciting version of Chopin's Minute Waltz. Varying romps with ballads and showing off not only his creative ideas but his warm tone,
Carl Saunders' maiden effort as a leader is quite impressive and highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow