NYC based-trombonist Robert Edwards brags in brass with trumpeter Joe Magnarelli and a rhythm team of Mike Karn/b, Aaron Kimmel/dr and Adam Birnbaum/dr for a bopping collection of originals and covers. Edwards has an alluringly optimistic tone that boasts a confident feel on the upbeat “The Manhattaners” and dashes out a sprint on “My Way”. Magnarelli is bright and clear on “Cupbearers” and the two form a gospel team on the strong Sunday feel of “Stand Up!”. The rhythm teams creates a glorious “Poinciana” pulse which allows Edwards to waft through during “Time To Shine”, with a soulful backbeat by the team has the brass cruising through “Rocks, Lime”. Birnbaum brings in some impressionistic Satie sounds during “Groundwork” and bounces with Karn on a coy “Baubles, Bangles, and Beads”. Vanessa Perea adds enticing vocals to “Don’t Blame Me”, as well, rounding things off on this straight-ahead gem. The horns complement each other well, with Magnarelli carrying the Kenny Dorham torch brightly, and Edwards sliding better than Ricky Henderson!