L.A. Drummer Leatherbarrow is joined by the formidable trio of Ernie Watts, tenor; Mitchell Forman, Piano; and Reggie Hamilton, bass. Although this is his debut outing, he’s a seasoned powerful drummer, and the original eleven tunes are full of swing and originality. There are several ballads, Willows and Silver Springs, and the de rigeur nod to Thelonious Monk, Monkalonious. The opener, Don’t Mess With the Messenger, sets the tone for this driving outing.
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