Guitarist Bobby Broom is low-key but confident, which is often reflected in his playing. On this selection - culled from a series of live trio dates recorded in his hometown of Chicago - one gets to enjoy his most spirited side as well as a return to jazz standards and other staples. Throughout the session, Broom has a fine sense of pace. While he can deliver some dazzling lines, he also understands the virtue of patience and carefully plans his moves and variations.
The guitarist is accompanied by two sympathetic players - longtime bassist Dennis Carroll, whose fat, sturdy tone solidly grounds the trio, and drummer Kobie Watkins, whose explosive bursts and purposeful accents keep the energy flowing. With their support, Broom brings out the playfulness of some tunes, most notably "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top" and "Unit 7."
The main issue with this recording has to do with sound. Conversations (this was recorded in a restaurant) can be intrusive, and the bass is often not captured properly. Fortunately, Carroll gets enough solo space to showcase his abilities.