If you came across a CD titled , , or , you wouldn't be the least bit surprised. After all, , and were all famous for their smooth playing -- if you've been listening to or and suddenly find yourself in the mood for something comparable by an instrumentalist, those guys would be obvious choices. , however, isn't necessarily the first person that people associate with adjectives like smooth and romantic. could be a very forceful, aggressive player -- some reviewers have described his playing as "angry" -- and during the last few years of his life (when he was exploring atonal ), the saxman could be downright blistering. Nonetheless, the fact is that was a magnificent player, and it makes perfect sense for to assemble a collection of his more romantic work. Released in 2001, draws on such titles as ( ), ), and ). a gem, is from , while illustrates the triumphant nature of 's 1963 encounter with singer . Back in 1963, there were those who felt that and , a very sophisticated crooner, were an odd combination. But in fact, the two provided to be every bit as compatible as . Again, was versatile -- he loved to play forcefully, but that didn't prevent him from having a romantic side. doesn't tell the entire story where 's ballad playing is concerned; the saxman also did his share of stunning work at . Nonetheless, this is an excellent collection that has no problem reminding us just how warm and expressive his playing could be. ~ Alex Henderson