Pianist
David Hazeltine is the leader of this straight-ahead quartet date, contributes two originals, and is in superior form, but tenor saxophonist
Javon Jackson often steals the show.
Jackson, who in other settings sometimes hints strongly at
Joe Henderson, on this occasion looks more toward late-'50s
John Coltrane, particularly on a beautifully interpreted version of "Soul Eyes" and Trane's "Moment's Notice." Other highlights include an extended "My Foolish Heart,"
Hazeltine's rightfully boppish "This One's for Bud," and "What'll I Do."
Hazeltine and
Jackson are joined by bassist
Peter Washington and either
Louis Hayes or
Joe Farnsworth on drums, with vibraphonist
Steve Nelson making a guest appearance on "Old Devil Moon." The music is quite enjoyable and very well played, one of
Javon Jackson's finest recordings and a superior outing for
David Hazeltine. ~ Scott Yanow