The interplay among the performers on Mrs. Vache’s Boys is, well, familial. Clarinetist Allan Vache, with his crystalline high register, direct solo style, and driving attack, is outstanding, truly a “talent deserving wider recognition.” The rhythm section-guitarist Howard Alden, pianist Eddie Higgins, bassist Phil Flanigan and drummer Ed Metz, Jr.-rides smoothly, summoning heat as necessary. “Just Friends” is a hot opener with the horns in classic counterpoint and the rhythm section, especially Higgins, bright and agile. On the excellent “Cottontail” Warren dips into his crackling, Roy Eldridge-meets-Clark Terry bag. The group does “All Blues” in the character of the Miles Davis original, with Alden reminiscent of Kenny Burrell. Altogether, Mama Vache can be proud of this fine recording.
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