Steve Davis has been very busy since becoming a part of the Manhattan jazz scene. In addition to recording with
Art Blakey,
Jackie McLean,
Chick Corea & Origin, and
Slide Hampton, plus
the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band,
Davis has been a part of the all-star cooperative group
One for All and has taken part in a number of sessions led by the band's members, as well as recording prolifically as a leader.
Images is a ten-part suite saluting the people and places of Hartford, CT, where Davis studied with
McLean at the University of Hartford. "Twain's World" (saluting author
Mark Twain, who lived there for a time) is a perky hard bop vehicle that might have fit in
Art Blakey's repertoire. The jaunty bop tribute "J Mac's Way" honors
McLean, showcasing solos by pianist David Bryant, alto saxophonist
Mike DiRubbo, and the leader. His lush ballad "Rose Garden" paints a picture even without a lyric, while the driving "Club 880" wraps the CD with a flourish. This is another excellent addition to
Steve Davis' extensive discography. ~ Ken Dryden