John Hicks - In The Mix (1995) {Landmark LCD-1542-2}

The prolific John Hicks, whose output of trio recordings has been enjoyed during the past 25 years, now offers this mixture of trio, quartet and quintet formats with the powerful addition of Vincent Herring on alto and soprano sax. That should be enough for anyone.

The opener is a trio version of the Hicks tune "In the Mix," a fast-mover that highlights the spirited drum work of Cecil Brooks, followed by the quartet's interpretation of "Yemenja," a beautiful composition that Hicks named after his daughter, which, quite naturally, has plenty of felling, while Herring's soprano adds just the right touch of flavor.

Herring is a passionate young player and his work on "Elation," his own composition, puts him front and center on the alto. Young Herring is a gifted improviser whose energy is seemingly inexhaustible. Drum work by Brooks is also outstanding.

The tune "Motivation" introduces the quintet format with the addition of Elise Wood on flute, whose smooth and flowing playing has been a part of various Hicks groups since 1982. With Herring on soprano, the group makes easy work out of the tune's many fast-moving provessions while Hicks, as usual, demonstrates total command of his instrument.

Herring, though, continues to impress. His playing seems to get stronger and better with each outing – as does his reputation as one of the lions on the fast track to stardom. Listen to him on "Weaver of Dreams" for a good demonstration.

This recording is a joy and is highly recommended.

Personnel
Vincent Herring – alto sax, soprano sax
Elise Wood – flute
John Hicks – piano
Curtis Lundy – bass
Cecil Brooks III – drums

Tracks
01 In The Mix 04:12
02 Yemenja 10:22
03 Elation 03:17
04 Soul Eyes 06:55
05 Motivation 05:33
06 Weaver Of Dreams 08:12
07 Mind Wine 04:57
08 Once In A While 05:00