This Is Now

by Scott YanowMost of clarinetist Eddie Daniels' projects for GRP had a central theme. This CD was an exception in that the material is quite wide-ranging, from Duke Ellington ("In a Sentimental Mood" and "Body and Soul") to Thad Jones and Bill Evans songs. Pianist Billy Childs, who contributed three originals (Daniels brought in four), is a key player in the music, clearly inspiring the clarinetist to come up with consistently challenging statements. With either Tony Dumas or Jimmy Johnson on bass and Ralph Penland or Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, these quartet performances feature Eddie Daniels and Billy Childs at their best.