Trumpeter Chris Botti returns to his first love, mellow mainstream jazz, on this surprisingly satisfying session. He brought in the best of the best for support, including Joshua Bell/vi, Taylor Eigsti/p, Gilad Hekselman/g and Vinnie Colaiuta/dr for mix of open and muted trumpet treats.
A duet with Eigsti for “Danny Boy” sets the tone for the warmth and allure of the entire album. A gentle read of “Fix You” with an acoustic Hekselman and deft Colaiuta is simply sublime. With the Harmon Mute, a deft “Bewitched”, soft “Blue In Green” and relaxed “Old Folks” remind one of vintage era Miles Davis, making each note, and each space between them, count. Most alluring is a samba’d read of “Paris” and strong “Time On My Hands”. This is the type of album that makes you fall in love with jazz trumpet. WHEW!