Amazing... 'nuff said!
Eric Siereveld | Cincinnati, OH | 07/20/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"To start off with Jim Rotondi has already distinguished himself as one of the premire trumpet voices of this generation. He is comfortable in any situation, which shows given his choices of group arrangements throughout his discography. This album stands out as one of his best efforts. His ideas are clear and clean. The album starts off with the tune Iron Man, which is based on the changes to Tune Up, and any serious jazz musician knows Tune Up! I highly recommend the tune Iron Man for great transcription material. Other standouts on this recording are Embraceable You, and old standard to be sure, showcasing Jim's beautiful flugel along with Steve Nelson's smooth vibes, Digit a angular up-beat romp, note the fantastic drumwork of Bill Stewart, Mr. Craignos is a funky bluesy trip, and catchy as hell! And as usual Jim leaves you wanting more with the tune Power.
I can't say enough about this album it has a bit of everything. Jim put together a fantastic Group of musicians including, Jimmy Greene, Steve Nelson, Doug Weiss, and Bill Stewart. If you like any of Jim's other recordings don't miss this one, It's well worth the money and certainly worth the time... 'nuff said."
The Torch Has Been Passed
Mark A. Geisler | DeKalb, IL United States | 06/15/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Like on his other Criss Cross releases, Jim Rotondi presents a very fresh and varied set of material. He will remind you very much of Freddie Hubbard with his phrasing and full (sometimes fat?) tone. I am a great fan of the late trumpeter, and am so happy that Rotondi and others have and will be running with the torch."
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1