The spirited vibes player unarguably demonstrates his versatility on an instrument that few have been able to master. The gritty side of
Johnny Lytle is manifested on the title track, "Happy Ground," a bluesy jump that swings with a classic big-band jazz sound and arrangement and reminiscent of the jam sessions of yesteryear.
Lytle settles down on "A Child Is Born," a smoothly blended arrangement in which one solo complements the next. "Little Sunflower" has a serious Latin rhythm with the palpitative feel of Sam Figueroa's congas.
Lytle has no problem finding his groove. As peppy as "Love for Sale" may be, it has its calming moments without sacrificing the tempo. All selections offer excellent solo exhibitions by all the musicians.