Alto saxist Markus Howell brings a classic post bop sound to this album with Art Hirahara/p, Boris Kozlov/b and Rudy Royston/dr on this classy collection of mostly originals. You can feel the church in his sound, delivery and song titles, as “Trials By Fire” has a pretty lyricism and the spiritual medley “IU Love You Lord/We Exalt Thee” is a mix of worship and R&B. The rhythm section ricochets as Howell digs into “The Path” and he simmers with Royston on a rapid fire read of Herbie Hancock’s “Eye Of The Hurricane”. There are some tricky l ines and direction changes on the dramatic “Counterattack” while Kozlo grooves with the leader on “Street Stut”. Velvet threads