Without a Trace

Fresh big band charts and deliveries are produced by composer/conductor Scott Reeves as he leads a team that includes all stars Steve Wilson/ss-as-fl and Carolyn Leonhart/voc. The vocalist is featured on a lithe and brassy title track, as Wilson gives an aria alongside Jim Ridi's somber musings on "Incandescence." Reeves shows cleverness as he charts a Latinized "Speak Low" with bright section work and Wilson teaming with Chris Rogers/tp and Andy Watson/dr for some extroverted charms. The band is peppy and alert for a swinging tribute to Thad Jones on "Something For Thad" with Watson riding the cymbal for Wayne Shorter's exotic "Juju." A pleasure for big band fans of the modern age.