This project is all about continued growth and the need to continually push forward as a writer, player, band-leader, and producer.

It’s also a snapshot of this group, and the kind of musical rapport we have developed.

With the exception of bassist Miles Brown, who is relatively new to me, all these guys are my long-time musical collaborators and good friends. Shawn Purcell has been my main partner in jazz crimes since 1998 when we met on the Airmen of Note, and has been on all seven of my records. Todd and Harry, I first met on the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra in the early 2000s. I trust these guys to help develop my tunes and to have my back when I take chances on the bandstand. They push me as a soloist rhythmically and harmonically into spaces I would never go on my own.

This collection of tunes reflects my interest in a wide range of styles, and clearly shows, I think, many of my influences such as Michael Brecker and the power combo of David Garibaldi and Francis “Rocco” Prestia, all three of whom you can see reflected in the song titles. The influence of two of my favorite composers, John Scofield and Pat Metheny also permeates many of these tunes.