This compilation gathers early and unreleased tracks from between 1972 and 1982 by the excellent trumpeter. But rather than being a hodgepodge of toss-offs, it is a strong portrait of a stellar talent. It is particularly interesting to note the development of what
Thompson calls free-bop from a more conservative West Coast-influenced style. Particularly fine is the sensitive "Yesterdays" and the exciting "The Quest." ~ Tim Sheridan