The problem with this set is that baritonist
Cecil Payne, a veteran of the classic bebop era, is obviously past his prime and his tone is weak; he fares best during his two appearances on flute.
Payne is featured in a quartet with pianist Ed Stoute, veteran bassist Leonard Gaskin, and drummer Wade Barnes. Tulivu-Donna Cumberbatch, a decent singer, helps out a lot by relieving the stress on
Payne with her four vocals. The music is boppish, featuring straight-ahead renditions of standards (including "Blue 'n' Boogie," "I Didn't Know About You," and "Stella By Starlight") plus two
Payne originals. The strangest performance is "Cherokee," which (except during its final chorus) is taken without playing the bridge, even during the solos. Due to
Payne's decline, this set is only of historic interest. ~ Scott Yanow