This is one of pianist/vocalist/composer Bobby Troup’s few (and possibly only) all-instrumental dates. Accompanied by cool-toned horns (valve trombonist Bob Enevoldsen, trumpeter Stu Williamson, tenor saxophonist Ted Nash and baritonist Ronnie Lang) along with bassist Buddy Clark and drummer Mel Lewis, Troup explores eight familiar standards plus his own “I See Your Bass Before Me.” The easy-listening music that is heard on this V.S.O.P. LP (not yet out on CD) is fine if not overly stimulating. The emphasis is on ballads and mellow playing. – Scott Yanow
