It took chutzpah for alto saxophonist Bobby Watson to liken both From the Heart and his band Live & Learn to the storied tradition of Art Blakey's mentorship of young hard bop talent in the Jazz Messengers — and then musically justify the comparison. With Live & Learn as with his previous band Horizon, Watson features effervescent, driving grooves, original material from various band members, and the heartening frisson of seasoned vets (like himself and bassist Curtis Lundy) with unheralded but capable young guns.

“Wilkes BBQ” continues his delightful penchant for leading things off with a zesty and arresting new tune. Lundy contributes a hip-lifting bass line, drummer Quincy Davis provides the snappy-slappy riposte, and then the catchy melody takes hold. Other highlights include “Deep Pockets,” where pianist Harold O'Neal referees torrid exchanges between Davis and trumpeter Leron Thomas, then Watson; a title track with the sort of durable groove and tear-a-hunk solos reminiscent of Blakey's classic Jazz Messengers discs on Blue Note; and the closer, “Marcus Vein,” that gives everyone a chance to let off steam. Last but not least, don't sleep on secret weapon Warren Wolf on vibes, who is unlike Steve Nelson and… read more »