This matchup between trumpeters
Doc Cheatham (91 at the time) and
Nicholas Payton (just 23) is quite logical and delightful.
Cheatham, one of the few survivors of the 1920s, was still in remarkably fine form, while
Payton (a flexible New Orleans player capable of ranging from Dixieland to
Freddie Hubbard) is both respectful and inspiring. With
Doc contributing occasional vocals and the settings ranging from a quartet to an octet with clarinetist Jack Maheu and pianist Butch Thompson, the brassmen explore a variety of 1920s and '30s standards, including a couple of obscurities ("Do You Believe in Love at Sight?" and "Maybe"). The interplay between the co-leaders, the many subtle tributes to
Louis Armstrong, and the consistent enthusiasm of this swinging set make this a historic success and a very enjoyable outing. ~ Scott Yanow