Drummer Bill Stewart (best known for having formerly been a regular member of John Scofield’s group) has been developing into a notable bandleader and composer himself. In fact, seven of the nine numbers on this CD are his (they are joined by Jackie McLean’s “Little Melonae” and an eccentric version of Thelonious Monk’s “Rhythm-A-Ning”), and the interesting and unusual structures clearly inspire Stewart’s sidemen to some of their best playing. Steve Wilson (on alto and soprano), tenor saxophonist Seamus Blake, pianist Bill Carrothers and bassist Larry Grenadier are all up and coming players, and someday this CD may be looked upon as an all-star group. The post-bop solos and occasional surprises make the stimulating set easily recommended. – Scott Yanow
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