March 7, 2019
With an easy bop sensibility, Woods cuts loose on a number of originals and a few surprising chestnuts for a strong set. Fellow reed player Johnny Griffin (the two played in Monk’s nonet in the late ’60s) and the fine rhythm section of Cedar Walton on piano, Ben Riley on drums and Peter Washington on bass all make great contributions. On the title track, Woods and Griffin swing in a relaxed bossa nova style, while “I’m So Scared of Girls When They’re Good Looking” is by turns doleful and good-humored. All in all, a charming set. ~ Tim Sheridan
