Moran has studied with Jaki Byard, Richard Abrams and Andrew Hill, whose influence is dominant, especially compositionally. This is all to the good. Few indeed have taken the road traveled by Hill, who himself has made precious few recordings. Moran has plenty of pianistic ideas, and repeated listens reveal how he is moving into his own way of dealing. Greg Osby played alto on Hill’s last great record, Eternal Spirit, so his ability to fit in here is no surprise. Stefon Harris’ vibes are reminiscent of Bobby Hutcherson’s playing with Hill, while Lonnie Plaxico and Eric Harlan do nice rhythm work. This is good music that can only get better if Moran stays his course.
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