Miami saxophonist-vocalist Jesse Jones, at 52, makes an auspicious debut with snappy playing, hardy blues-grooves, soulful scatting and vocals, fine flute doubling. The ten-tune straightahead album (mostly band originals) highlights Jones’ younger brother, trumpeter and session producer, Melton Mustafa (four tracks) and Dr. Lonnie Smith, piano/organ (three tracks). Curtis Lundy (bass) and Danny Burger (drums) hardily drive the swinging all-star assemblage. Jones intelligently heeds dynamics and the crew contributes exceptional solos and comping.
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