On alto saxophonist James Spaulding's fourth Muse release, he has joined forces with tenor saxophonist Roland Alexander, trombonist Tyrone Jefferson, pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Ray Drummond, and drummer Louis Hayes to perform six originals by the group members, one standard, one jazz classic, and one lesser-known gem, the hard-swinging Minor Bertha, written by the late pianist Elmo Hope. A veteran of many '60s Blue Note sessions led by musicians such as Freddie Hubbard, Wayne Shorter, and Lee Morgan, Spaulding prefers the higher register of his horn and combines it with an aggressive attack, which is a direct contrast to his lyrical flute. Spaulding and the rhythm section play on five of the nine selections, but it is the sextet and quintet pieces that make this recording special. Hayes provides dynamic drumming, with his driving cymbal beat, surprising snare drum, hi-hat, and cymbal accents, and his undeniable sense of swing is another highlight. Other favorites include Alexander's Cabu, which alternates between Latin and hard bop, Jefferson's Carribean-influenced Black Market and the medium blues Uhuru Sasa, both of which feature Spaulding's flute, and the Jackie McLean-like title track. This is a fine recording by an underrecognized saxophone master. ~ Greg Turner, Rovi

1		Cabu
2		Minor Bertha
3		Judy
4		Autumn Leaves
5		Wee
6		Black Market
7		Uhuru Sasa
8		Song of Courage
9		King

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