A mainstream yet quite unpredictable release from the superb trumpet/flugelhorn player John Sneider. Four cuts feature him in the company of organist Larry Goldings, guitarist John Hart, and drummer Andy Watson. Five others feature Sneider and Watson with pianist David Berkman and bassist Dwayne Burno. Saxophonist Chris Potter and trombonist David Gibson add color and incisive solos on three tunes, and guitarist Bob Sneider, the leader's brother, appears on three as well. Highlights include Sneider's creative look at two Coltrane classics, "Giant Steps" and "Cousin Mary," as well as a closing, multi-meter rendition of Randy Weston's "Hi-Fly" and a compelling take on the semi-obscure ballad "Lucky to Be Me." Sneider's originals range from the opening title track, a bright and optimistic waltz, to the funky "Wooly Mammoth," the slow, modified minor blues "Patience Is a Virtue," and the harmonically tricky bossa nova "Alexicon," dedicated to fellow trumpeter Alex Norris. Chris Potter's bass clarinet work on "The Little Horses," an adapted folk song, is particularly inspired, as is Bob Sneider's unaccompanied intro on "Lucky to Be Me." ~ David R. Adler