by Scott Yanow
Trumpeter Benny Bailey has had an on-and-off recording career, and due to his longtime residency in Europe, has been underrated through the years. This CD reissue of his Candid date is one of the high points of his career. Bailey is joined by an all-star septet, including altoist Phil Woods, Julius Watkins on French horn, and pianist Tommy Flanagan. The high-quality arrangements (some by Quincy Jones) give a lot of variety to this highly recommended set.