Composer

by Scott YanowFor Cedar Walton's debut on the Astor Place label, the widely respected veteran pianist contributed all nine selections. Although his "Bolivia" is a jazz standard, Walton is not normally thought of as a major composer. However quite a few of his new pieces could possibly become standards in the future if jazz improvisers explore this disc. Of the more memorable orignals, "Martha's Prize" has a light cheerful melody, "The Vision" gives Ralph Moore an opportunity to show just how distinctive he can sound on soprano, "Happiness" is a joyful hard bop tune a little reminscent of "Little Rock Getaway" with a bridge added, "Underground Memoirs" (which has a particularly strong Walton solo) is a haunting ballad and "Theme For Jobim" swings with a strong bossa beat. The all-star lineup (trumpeter Roy Hargrove, altoist Vincent Herring, Ralph Moore on tenor and soprano, bassist Christian McBride and drummer Vic Lewis) plays up to their potential with Hargrove sometimes recalling Freddie Hubbard, Moore and Herring getting in their spots and the ensemble on a whole sometimes resembling the Jazz Messengers; due to the voicings, there are times when one would swear that a trombone was present. Highly recommended.