Backed by the likes of saxophonist Bobby Watson, pianist Renee Rosnes, and drummer Billy Hart, Canada’s premier bebop guitarist reaffirms his title and demonstrates that he has some other dimensions on this, his latest album.
The bluesy slide guitar work on the title track might have listeners wondering who the other guitarist is, it’s Leitch-who plays it both hot and cool, paving the way for a searing solo by Watson. Also a fine composer, Leitch contributes several originals, including “Hillary Step,” an uptempo modal workout that gives all concerned a chance to blow hard. Of the disc’s standards, “From This Moment On” is particularly outstanding, in part due to its bright tempo, an amazingly deft solo by Watson and Leitch’s equally facile guitar work, which nails the rapidly moving changes and provides a fitting conclusion to a memorable set by one of jazz guitar’s finest.
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