If anyone deserves a “…with strings” album, it’s Eric Alexander, as he’s got possibly the warmest and breathiest tone alive. He’s with his working team of David Hazeltine/p, John Webber/b and Joe Farnsworth/dr, so the team of 9 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos, flute and French horn conducted by Dave Rivello never overwhelm the proceedings. In fact they are used as an “extra” musician, adding a dash here or there, and never feeling like an unwelcome guest.
Webber and Farnsworth lead in with Alexander in full vibrato mode on the luscious “Dreamsville” while the bassist opens up on the noir-mooded “Some Other Time.” Alexander sighs with aplomb on the bel canto “The Thrill Is Gone” and is breathy with the blues for “Lonely Woman.” The team breezes like a spring day on the saxist’s “Gently” while the supporting cast sizzles on the percussive “Slow, Hot Wind.” Another excellent volume in Alexander’s rich catalog.