Though only in his early thirties at the time of these recording sessions, pianist
Jeb Patton had already firmly established himself in the jazz world. This former student of the late
Sir Roland Hanna and
Jimmy Heath recorded as a sideman on CDs with
Heath's small groups and big bands,
the Heath Brothers, while he has also performed with many other artists. His second CD features two other talented young musicians, bassist David Wong and drummer Pete Van Nostrand, who also appeared on his debut effort.
Patton chose a surprising opener, a breezy setting of the neglected pianist
Reuben Brown's "Billy," a driving bop piece deserving of wider recognition. The pianist modifies the usually somber bossa nova ballad "Estate" by picking up the tempo, while Van Nostrand switches to brushes for
Patton's robust, swinging arrangement of the show tune "If Ever I Would Leave You." Originals include his bluesy tribute to
Hanna ("Sir Roland") and the snappy "The Music Goes On."
Jimmy Heath plays soprano sax in a touching duo arrangement of "Last Night When We Were Young," while Albert "Tootie" Heath takes over on drums for his brother's playful blues "Cloak and Dagger" and the pianist's sauntering, Latin-flavored "Street Song."
Jeb Patton is one of the most promising jazz musicians of his generation and this CD is a fine addition to his discography. ~ Ken Dryden