Trumpeter/composer Alex Norris has been a stalwart constituent of the New York jazz scene since 1992 after graduating from Peabody Conservatory of Music. Although this is his only third leader album and his debut release from SteepleChase, Norris is by no means a newcomer. It will be almost impossible to find any notable big band, smaller ensemble and soloist Norris has not performed, toured and recorded with. Here he chose his “go-to-quintet” of long-time cohorts/friends to present an album of straight-ahead, swinging jazz all penned by Norris. “…Norris writes and plays with rare assurance and seldom walks on overly familiar paths….He’s not an aggressive stylist and his penchant for thoughtful dynamics gives him the confidence to leave space and unexpected intervals in his solos.” (The Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD)