Again working with his longtime rhythm section of
George Tucker (bass) and
Al Harewood (drums),
Horace Parlan manages to
On the Spur of the Moment make distinctive by emphasizing the rhythmic side of his hard bop. Tenor saxophonist
Stanley Turrentine and trumpeter
Tommy Turrentine help give the quintet a bluesy edge, which the band exploits to an appealing effect throughout these six, mostly original, compositions. There are a few ballads, and even when things are at their hottest,
Parlan's understated playing is a cue for the group to keep it tasteful, but that relaxed atmosphere is part of the reason why
On the Spur of the Moment is another winning effort from the underrated pianist. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine