Bassist Gerald Cannon does some impressive mixing and matching with some major jazz stars on this clever session. He teams up with a basic core of pianist Rick Germanson and drummer Willie Jones III while forming various sized groups that include a hip post bopping quintet with Gary Bartz and Jeremy Pelt on “Every Man Is A King” while Russell Malone brings his guitar to replace Pelt on as Jones caresses the ride cymbal on the bassist’s Maiden Voyage-ish “A Thought.” Alto saxist Steve Slagle sighs with delight on a swooping “Prelude to a Kiss,” and pianist Kenny Barron creates a sensuous mood with Sherman Irby and Pelt o “Amanda’s Bossa.” Lots of creative post bop abounds, and while Cannon shows his ability to create a groove and keep a band flowing together, he displays his creative wares on a gorgeously oozing solo read of “Darn That Dream” which closes the album with style and sophistication. This one’s a delight!
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