This is an easy CD to recommend. Gary Foster's pleasing alto is two parts Phil Woods and one part Lee Konitz. Pianist Jimmy Rowles displays his distinctive and tasteful chord voicings; bassist John Heard and drummer Joe Labarbera use their talents in very supportive background work; and the quartet is tight but spontaneous. A strong point of the session is the repertoire, which includes Rowles' most popular composition (a typically haunting "The Peacocks"), a tribute to Warne Marsh, the pianist's raspy but effective vocal on "What a Life," and a catchy Sonny Red blues called "'Teef." This set will satisfy fans of bop-based jazz. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
