Anton Schwartz used the blues as inspiration for nine compositions heard on this studio session, though many of them are not especially bluesy. With a band including a longtime
collaborator, guitarist Peter Bernstein, plus rising star Taylor Eigsti on piano, bassist John Shiflett and drummer Tim Bulkley, the tenor saxophonist kicks off the date with his percolating, funky "Phantom Dance," which rhythmically suggests the influence of Eddie Harris. His engaging "Slightly Off Course" would have easily been a fit with Art Blakeys repertoire, while Schwartz speaks his mind with a hot tenor solo in "Marcel Marceau." The only standard is a thoughtful arrangement of Antonio Carlos Jobims "Wave." The band provides strong support throughout the date, with Bernstein and Eigsti adding potent solos as well. Beautifully recorded in 24-bit stereo, this CD is warmly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden
Rovi