Why Not ??

As Tim Price implies in the liner notes, the model for these tracks is the classic Blue Note hard bop performances from the mid-20th century. Zeuren, who composed and arranged all the tunes, uses the traditional front-line instrumentation of trumpet/tenor sax and rhythm, adding an extra percussionist. The music is well played, if largely derivative, with strong contributions from all the players. Little-known trumpeter Shunzo Ono is a particular treat, with a hard-edged tone and a sprightly rhythmic conception. The upbeat songs are most effective, taking advantage of the group's crisp, clean attack and exceptional fluidity. Zeuren is a fine organizer, writer, and performer, the engine that anchors the sound. If there is a bland quality to some of it, it is compensated by other, more adventurous parts. The bluesy, relaxed, and not-easy-to-play "Boos" is a good blowing vehicle for the post-Coltrane airs of saxophonist Dave Finucane, contrasted by the brittle tone of Ono. "Frunk" has a funky resemblance to "Watermelon Man," while "At Last" is a feature, at least in part, for Zeuren's drums. A few of the other pieces are a somewhat nondescript.