Trombonist
Curtis Fuller's second Mainstream album has some dated electronics and funk rhythms, although there are some worthwhile solos from the leader, trumpeter
Bill Hardman, and
Jimmy Heath on tenor and soprano. The rhythm section (guitarist
Earl Dunbar,
Cedar Walton on electric piano, electric bassist
Mickey Bass and drummer
Billy Higgins) weighs down the music a bit despite their obvious talents. The band stretches out on four
Fuller originals (best is the 11-minute "Smokin'") and "Stella by Starlight," but the results are not too essential.