This early quintet outing is a strong showcase for the composer. It's also an important chapter in the special relationship between and guitarist . The two would later work mainly in piano-less settings, but here they are joined by pianist , who adds his advanced harmonic insight to the session. One could rightly bill the record as " and with the Trio," as the rhythm section consists of bassist and drummer , 's longtime collaborators. The disc boasts five strong originals, including which would resurface on 2001's . (This version features guest tenorists .) weighs in with a similar version of which he included on 2000s . The two remaining non- pieces are 's hard-swinging and a bright five/four rendition of 's reveals much about the evolution of all these players, and is therefore well worth the attention of serious fans. ~ David R. Adler