Sporting several key performers from the vibrant Dutch scene, trombonist Joost Buis launches a winner with attractive, first-class compositions and arrangements that wind, twist, and coalesce into all sorts of tricky permutations. With the sort of talent represented here -- from saxophonist Tobias Delius, pianist Cor Fuhler, bassist Wilbert de Joode, and percussionist Michael Vatcher, to name some of the better-known musicians, to cornetist Felicity Provan, with her incredible punctuating thrusts -- Buis could have simply written heads and allowed the players to speak for themselves. He rejects this easy route, though, in favor of remarkably intricate writing that brings this to a higher level. As with the spectacular Dutch bandleader Michiel Braam, with whose ensemble Bik Bent Braam Buis has recorded, there is a splendid mix of melody, distortion, complexity, and, to be expected, superb soloing. The arrangements straddle the line between "in" and "out," not dissimilar to some of George Russell's creations from the early '60s, with a variety of moods explored. While there are intense moments, Buis is more concerned with colors, rhythms, and harmony. Although he proves himself a formidable soloist, he only imbibes occasionally, relying instead on the considerable skills of his entourage. The only tune not written by him, the Ellington and Strayhorn composition Zweet Zursday, features a wonderfully understated, muted contribution by Buis. Those who enjoy the kind of sophisticated, quality performances of groups such as those led by Braam, and by countryman Sean Bergin's M.O.B., or by ensembles such as the Italian Instabile Orchestra, should find Buis' tentet an attractive alternative. ~ Steven Loewy, Rovi

1		The Eggs
2		Ple4
3		Bata4
4		Grilkijker I
5		The Comet's Point of View
6		Spaghetti Canon
7		Nantones
8		Dinxperlo
9		Tunguska Butterfly
10		Mir
11		Zweet Zurzday
12		Grilkijker II

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