Fresh excitement and youthful vigor run throughout this album, but they needn’t seduce you away from validating the sophisticated compositional skill of saxmen Faulk (tenor and soprano) and “special guest” Myron Walden (alto), their admirable teamwork with strong backup from bassist Joe Martin and drummer Jordi Rossy, and the tasteful array of standards, originals, and tributes. Like Art Pepper, Faulk can sigh with plaintive soudade and as easily hum the epitome of relaxed swing.
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