Saxophonist Walt Weiskopf has produced another enjoyable session of straight ahead jazz with a fine mix of standards and original tunes titled Fountain of Youth on the Posi-Tone label.
Highlights include the originals,"Backstage Blues" , a mid-tempo groove that recalls John Coltrane from the Giant Steps sessions, and the lightning quick "Loose Lips". Among the standards that Weiskopf explores are Johnny Mandel's "Close Enough For Love", and the David Raskin classic "Laura" .
Weiskopf's backing group includes Behn Gillece , who has recorded his own sessions for Posi-Tone recently, on vibes, Peter Zak on piano, Mike Karn on bass and Steve Fidyk on drums. They all work well together on this outing and have equal opportunity to step into the spotlight with fabulous soloing throughout.
Weiskopf, whose background includes membership in the bands of Buddy Rich and Toshiko Akiyoshi in his early years, and a recent stint in Steely Dan, has proven to be a seasoned leader as well. Fountain of Youth demonstrates once again that Weiskopf is a player that should be getting wider recognition.