Phil Markowitz is better known for his work as a sideman, so this rare opportunity to hear him leading his own date is worth checking out. The post-bop pianist composed five of the CD's eight tracks, including the thrilling "Taxi Ride," which seems to aurally convey the complexity and energy of New York City at night. Special guest
Toots Thielemans, with whom the pianist worked regularly in the early '80s, adds his matchless harmonica to an imaginative arrangement of the Beatles' "And I Love Her" as well as the pretty ballad "If It Were Me," which was written by the leader's wife, Davia Sachs. Sachs, a gifted singer, and cellist
Eugene Friesen are featured in the haunting "Elegy." ~ Ken Dryden