A fine hard bop-based pianist, Joe Mulholland performs ten of his originals on this modern straight-ahead date. On most of the selections he is joined by bassist Bob Nieske, drummer
Matt Wilson, trumpeter Ken Cervenka, Michael Moss on alto and soprano, and trombonist Gary Valente. "Astor's Ghost" uses different musicians in addition to the leader and Nieske. The music ranges from a blues and a modern tango to the waltz "Café Tables," and it makes one wonder why Joe Mulholland (who is based in Massachusetts) is not better known. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow