Last year guitarist Joshua Breakstone released a hip little quartet album included a cello in the mix. He returns to that winning formula with Lisle Atkinson/b, Andy Watson/dr and Mike Richmond/cello on a collection of originals and cleverly selected standards that emphasize lithe and nimble swing. Breakstone’s warm Wes Montgomery-toned strings team up with Watson’s ride cymbal on the lithe “Thingin’” and the hiply bopping “Evergreenish.” The mix of bass, cello and guitar make for a stringfest as a gospel beat underlays bowed and picked strings on “Home” and nimble finger work on “Hit It.” The team has the flexibility of a frisbee football team on the simmering and crisp read of “I’m An Old Cowhand” while Breakstone shows his tender touch on “I Wish I Knew.” A joy to the ears.
Capri Records