Organist Joey DeFrancesco switched to a small label for this release. He is featured with his regular trio (with guitarist Paul Bollenback and drummer Byron Landham), guest bassist Keter Betts, and a six-piece horn section arranged by Horace Ott. Most unusual about this set is that DeFrancesco is also heard on piano, trumpet, and vocals. Unfortunately, his singing is more heartfelt than musical and brings down the value of the record. However, DeFrancesco’s organ playing is as strong as ever and he is an underrated trumpeter most influenced by Miles Davis. Among the better selections are Wes Montgomery’s “Twisted Blues,” Wayne Shorter’s “Black Nile,” and “Moanin’.” – Scott Yanow
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