Calling All Cats

by Scott YanowTrumpeter Randy Sandke put a lot of work into this set, contributing five of the 13 selections, picking out a variety of less-played tunes (including "Mr. Snow" from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cootie Williams' "Blues A Poppin'" and Buck Clayton's "What a Beautiful Yesteryear") and playing not only trumpet, but a song apiece on piano and guitar. Although best known for his work in the classic jazz field, Sandke can also play more modern, as he shows in spots during this diverse yet consistent program. He is assisted by Scott Robinson (on tenor, soprano and baritone), trombonist Joel Helleny, guitarist Howard Alden, bassist Michael Moore, drummer Dennis Mackrel and two additional saxophonists added to four of the tunes. A continually interesting CD.