Throughout most of this impressive CD,
Richard Todd plays his French horn with the fluency, speed and power of a valve trombonist. Backed by a trio consisting of some of Los Angeles' top musicians (pianist
Billy Childs, bassist John Clayton and drummer Ralph Penland),
Todd performs a variety of superior material.
Chick Corea's speedy "Got a Match?" serves to introduce his impressive technique, "Cipriana" is a memorable jazz waltz by trumpeter Steve Huffsteter, the title cut is a medium-tempo minor blues and "Our Waltz" (which utilizes a brass choir via overdubbing) puts the focus on the beauty of
Todd's tone. All of the other selections are worthy and only on "Anthropology," where
Todd stumbles a bit, does the French hornist's jazz abilities seem slightly limited; he takes much of his solo at half speed. But if any proof were needed that the French horn has the potential to be a viable jazz instrument, this easily recommended CD offers ample evidence. ~ Scott Yanow