Once again – I send a special thanks to my man Sal in Chi-town for another great suggestion. This album is amazing.

Art Farmer recorded this in 1988. He was in his 60s at the time and still going strong with what could be called the best recording of his career. His playing on the title cut is one of the most beautifully crafted solos that I’ve ever heard. It is one of rare instances where you don’t hear horn or harmon — you hear emotion and feeling. Art could always play a ballad but he simply out does himself. It doesn’t stop there. It continues with tunes like “Fairtale Countryside”, “The Smile of the Snake” and “Progress Report” where Art stretches his legs and weaves another well crafted solo.

He is joined by a team of fantastic players who include Clifford Jordan (tenor sax), Victor Lewis (drums), Rufus Reid (bass) and James William (piano). To my ear they were all on the same page when they walked into the studio to record. The vibe is unified. Move it to the top of your “must have” list. You won’t regret it.