People & Places

Pianist Marc Seales's quartet recording featuring saxophonist Ernie Watts is a primarily mellow affair with tunes like "Rue Cler," "For You My Dear," and "Ascending Truth." However, Wayne Shorter's Weather Report tune "Palladium" and "The Muddy Chicago Blues" do kick the intensity up a bit. Drummer Moyes Lucas Jr. and bassist Bruce Lett keep the intensity up on the ballads and light a fire under the soloists. Watts' legendary and soulful saxophone is a focal point throughout, and he really shines on "Home Light," (which he dedicates to Ndugu Chancler) and "The Gingi," which are the record's best tracks. Lucas and Seales both sound fantastic on "Palladium" and it's always a pleasure to hear Ernie Watts, but I might suggest a better sequencing (order) to improve in the presentation of this fine music.