The trio of Craig Handy (on tenor and soprano), bassist Charles Fambrough, and drummer Ralph Peterson lives up to its potential during a wide-ranging set. The improvisations are explorative yet melodic and logical, while the interplay between these talented players is consistently impressive. Together they explore tributes to Clifford Jordan and George Adams and at times hint at Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, and even Grover Washington, Jr.. Pianist David Kikoski is heard on four selections, but his presence is actually unnecessary. Handy’s unaccompanied solo on “West Bank: Beyond the Berlin Wall” is a highlight of this recommended disc. – Scott Yanow
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