25 year old Tommy Ward shows impressive vocal skills and chops on this introductory ep of cleverly read standards. He’s backed by some of the best, with John Patitucci-Chris Colangelo/b, Marvin “Smitty” Smith-ray Brinker/dr, Larry Koonse-Jake Langley/g and Bill Cunliffe/p creating perfect framework for these alluring interpretations.
He shows an ability to create tension with a lyric, casually holding back from the beat to contrast with the hectic and assertive pace of the title tune, while slowly chugging up steam as a solo, then bringing in bass and drums and a stampede of energy for the bold and bluesy “Just One Of Those Things”. He’s dreamy eyed with intimate guitar work as he accompanies himself on piano for “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered” while as cozy as the boy next door on a piano/vocal serenade of “The Way You Look Tonight”. This ep is a nice invitation to check him out when he tours around; lots of class and promise displayed here.