The tapes for this long-lost set were discovered by altoist Richie Cole in his garage 25 years after they were recorded. Featured is one of Cole’s finest groups, a quintet that included guitarist Bruce Forman and pianist Bobby Enriquez. Enriquez’s hyper style, crazy wit, and impressive technique resulted in Cole nicknaming him “the Wild Man.” In fact, the pianist sometimes makes Cole almost seem like a straight man in their humorous exchanges. Cole, who switches to tenor on “Easy Street” and “Man with a Horn,” is in prime form, romping on such numbers as “Confirmation,” “Jeannine,” and the original “Um Ummm.” Enriquez is showcased on a crazy version of “Slaughter on Tenth Avenue,” and bassist Marshall Hawkins and drummer Scott Morris are excellent in support of the lead voices. Fans of Richie Cole’s earlier “Alto Madness” bands will enjoy this well-recorded release. – Scott Yanow
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