Search - Frank Foster :: Leo Rising

Swing Shift

Allan Suchinsky | Kensington, MD United States | 06/30/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Why is Frank Foster not better known? Listening to this gem of a recording really makes you wonder. Perhaps he was buried too long in the Basie band for his own good.



Everything and everyone here swings, from the opening choruses of "Your Only as Old as You Look" through the title tune, and than some. Foster's playing is full or lyricism and clearly reveals the influence Coltrane had on him. The rhythm section is excellent and not only beautifully supports Foster, but never attempts to upstage him. Exemplary of the seemless blend that exists here is the work on "Leo Rising."



Speaking of relative unknowns that warrant more exposure, where has pianist Stephen Scott been? Christian McBride and Lewis Nash are, of course, well known, and clearly validate their reputations with this session.



There is not a weak cut or filler on this disc, which is one outstanding recording."