World for Her

Personnel: David Hazeltine (piano); Javon Jackson (tenor saxophone); Steve Nelson (vibraphone); Peter Washington (bass); Louis Hayes, Joe Farnsworth (drums).
Recorded in Brooklyn, New York on May 30 and December 19, 1998.
Personnel: David Hazeltine (piano); Javon Jackson (tenor saxophone); Steve Nelson (vibraphone); Louis Hayes, Joe Farnsworth (drums).
Recording information: 05/30/1998/12/19/1998.
Pianist David Hazeltine is the leader of this straight-ahead quartet date, contributes two originals, and is in superior form, but tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson often steals the show. Jackson, who in other settings sometimes hints strongly at Joe Henderson, on this occasion looks more toward late-'50s John Coltrane, particularly on a beautifully interpreted version of "Soul Eyes" and Trane's "Moment's Notice." Other highlights include an extended "My Foolish Heart," Hazeltine's rightfully boppish "This One's for Bud," and "What'll I Do." Hazeltine and Jackson are joined by bassist Peter Washington and either Louis Hayes or Joe Farnsworth on drums, with vibraphonist Steve Nelson making a guest appearance on "Old Devil Moon." The music is quite enjoyable and very well played, one of Javon Jackson's finest recordings and a superior outing for David Hazeltine. ~ Scott Yanow