Another strong entry in
Buster Williams' substantial catalog as a leader. The master bassist opts for a trio this time rather than a quartet, but retains his regular cohorts
Geri Allen on piano and
Lenny White on drums. Impressionistic and meditative yet explosively swinging, the record is a must for fans of
Allen's playing. In addition to playing several original compositions by
Williams, the trio puts a sophisticated spin on "If I Should Lose You" and "Little Girl Blue." (The latter is actually a bass/piano duet.) They also pore over two gems from the
Miles Davis second quintet book, "The Sorcerer" (by
Herbie Hancock) and "Fall" (by
Wayne Shorter). Of the originals, "Bellodgia Diva," with its flowing theme and simple harmonic structure, becomes quickly etched in the brain, while "Ouija Board" and the two-part title track offer more abstract pleasures. As a whole,
Houdini represents the height of excellence in the piano trio idiom.