Drummer
Carl Allen and bassist
Rodney Whitaker make a solid team co-leading this studio date that blends enticing originals with imaginative treatments of two Motown hits. With pianist
Cyrus Chestnut, alto saxophonist
Steve Wilson, and guitarist
Rodney Jones, the band delivers a sauntering, soulful take of
Smokey Robinson's "Get Ready," while the brisk romp through
Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues" features superb solos all around, with both pieces arranged by
Diego Rivera.
Allen's breezy "Alternate Thoughts" showcases
Wilson's exuberant soprano sax and
Chestnut's buoyant piano, along with
Jones' tasty acoustic guitar solo.
Whitaker's "Summer (The Sweet Goodbye)" opens deceptively with a melancholy air before transforming into a driving post-bop setting. Organist
Dorsey Robinson is added for two numbers, highlighted by a spirited take of the contemporary gospel hit "We Fall Down." ~ Ken Dryden