It is difficult not to be impressed by this CD. Donny McCaslin, although occasionally hinting at Sonny Rollins, has a pretty original sound on tenor. Certainly his playing on the opening "Along Came Betty" sounds like no one else's. In addition to excellent technique, McCaslin is a quick thinker who is not shy of taking chances. Who else would take "Tenderly" at a brisk pace in 5/4 time or perform a pair of Astor Piazzolla's tango etudes as unaccompanied classical-type saxophone solos? Other than contributing three fine originals (a blues, a funky romp, and an emotional, heartbreaking ballad) and performing the Piazzolla pieces, McCaslin digs into five standards, really ripping through "Speak Low." The rhythm section (pianist Bruce Barth, bassist Ugonna Okegwo and drummer Billy Drummond) works very well together as a unit, with Barth taking some fine solos; still, this is very much Donny McCaslin's showcase. Highly recommended.
© Scott Yanow /TiVo