After a long period of indifferent recordings, altoist
Gary Bartz started to fulfill his potential in the early '90s. Joined by a superb rhythm section (comprised of pianist
John Hicks, bassist
Ray Drummond, and drummer
Al Foster) and trumpeter
Claudio Roditi (whose restrained power complements rather than competes with
Bartz), the altoist really stretches out, particularly on "Speak Low" and "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" which both clock in at within seven seconds of 19 minutes apiece.
Bartz is quite lyrical on a superior version of "It's Easy to Remember" and also takes inventive solos on his modal blues "Cousins" and
Wilbur Harden's "West 42nd Street." A highly recommended gem. ~ Scott Yanow