This is alto saxophonist
Justin Robinson's second recording as a leader and his first since 1991's Justin Time. He is joined by childhood friend, pianist
Stephen Scott, bassist Dwayne Burno, drummer
Dion Parson, and tenor saxophonist
Ron Blake on four selections; they perform a program of nine originals, six by
Robinson, two by Scott, one by pianist
Rodney Kendrick, and one jazz classic, an up-tempo arrangement of
Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage."
Robinson possesses one of the most distinctive alto sax sounds around, similar to one of his major influences,
Jackie McLean, with an aggressive attack reminiscent of McLean and, at times,
Eric Dolphy. There is only one ballad on this recording,
Robinson's "Love Thy Father," and every other selection is either medium or up-tempo. Along with "Maiden Voyage," other favorites include the title track, based on Joe Henderson's "Recorda Me"; Kendrick's finger popper, "A Little Sweeter"; and "Adnil,"
Robinson's swinging tribute to his sister that also appeared in a shorter version on Justin Time. Hopefully there will be fewer years between recordings from this fine young musician. ~ Greg Turner