A refined set of music from pianist Mike Longo and his big band, or, more accurately, the New York State of the Art Jazz Ensemble. Highlights include the soaring cadences of "Urban Jungle"; the mid-tempo bossa arrangement of John Coltrane's "Naima," with a beautiful flute solo by Frank Basile; the hint of "Jeepers Creepers" that surfaces during the 5/4 Latin chart "Day Spring"; the overflowing shout choruses on "Wee," an up-tempo romp over rhythm changes; and the closing ballad meditation, "It Never Entered My Mind." Other outstanding soloists include Adam Rafferty on guitar, Patience Higgins on soprano sax, Virgil Jones on tenor, and Bob Magnuson on alto. Whether playing blues, funk, Latin, or full-tilt swing, Longo and his group bring to the table a consistent musical vision, executed with precision and fire.
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