Pianist
Mike Wofford and flautist Holly Hofmann make a good team, as after they'd played together for a while, they became husband and wife, too. From this quintet session, they invited trumpeter
Terell Stafford (who made a name for himself as a part of
Bobby Watson's Horizon as well as recording as a leader), bassist Rob Thorson, and drummer Richard Sellers. The blend of flute and trumpet creates a warm harmony throughout much of the album, which is a compelling mix of strong originals and overlooked gems.
Wofford's loping "The Dipper" is a tribute to
Horace Silver, though it doesn't mimic his compositions. He integrates voicings similar to the jazz master's into his own framework. Hofmann's rambunctious post-bop vehicle "M-Line" sets the quintet afire, with sizzling solos by the composer and
Stafford, followed by
Wofford's intense workout.
Bobby Watson's infectious, Latin-flavored "Karita" will be familiar to the alto saxophonist's fans, as he has recorded it several times and
Stafford has likely played it on gigs with him.
Stafford's fiery solo is exuberant without going overboard, followed by Hofmann's expressive, sublime solo.
Wofford's bluesy playing is the highlight of
Jimmy Forrest's "Soul Street," as Thorson and Sellers lay down a solid foundation underneath him. Dick Twardzik is nearly forgotten due to his early death from a drug overdose in the '50s, but "The Girl from Greenland" is evidence of his promise as a composer.
Wofford's engaging trio interpretation pays tribute to the little-recorded pianist.
Turn Signal is easily one of the best recordings by
Mike Wofford and Holly Hofmann. ~ Ken Dryden