Although the original LP was reissued under guitarist
Kenny Burrell's name, it was originally led by
Frank Wess, who is heard doubling on flute and tenor. With the assistance of
Burrell, rhythm guitarist
Freddie Green, bassist
Eddie Jones and either
Kenny Clarke or
Gus Johnson on drums,
Wess is in excellent form on a set very reminiscent (not too surprisingly considering the personnel) of the
Count Basie band.
Wess contributed four of the songs,
Burrell brought in "Southern Exposure" and the quintet also plays "Over the Rainbow" and the obscure "Woolafunt's Lament." This is a fine straightahead date, with Wess's flute taking solo honors.