Happiness

by Ken DrydenThis mostly septet date features Eric Reed playing original material with a band that includes trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, trumpeter Marcus Printup, and alto saxophonist Wessell Anderson, among others. Happiness" is a charming waltz that serves as a tasty opener, while the mini-suite "Three Dances: Island Grind/Latin Bump/Boogie Down" and the three part "Suite Sisters" best give the listener an idea of his wide ranging talent as a writer and arranger. A lengthy duo interpretation of Duke Ellington's "Mood Indigo" is initially played with reverence, with sensitive solos by both the leader and Gordon, before Reed shows off his tremendous stride technique. The emphasis is often on the fine ensemble work of the horns and reeds, rather than focusing exclusively on the leader or other individual solos. This is yet another very satisfying outing by Eric Reed.