The debut recording by Tim Coffman features the J.J. Johnson-inspired trombonist performing jazz standards and a lone original in a sextet, a quartet, and a duet with bassist Kelly Sill ("Alone Together"). The music is modern mainstream hard bop jazz. Few surprises occur and the musicians are not overly distinctive but, on the other hand, each one plays quite well, particularly Mark Colby on tenor. Coffman is a fluent soloist who will eventually find his own voice. For now, Crossroads, which is highlighted by "Yes or No," "Sail Away," Freddie Hubbard's "Sky Dive," and "Alone Together," is an excellent first step.
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