by Scott Yanow
Many of Dexter Gordon's finest recordings were cut in Europe just prior to his triumphant return to the United States. This album was recorded just weeks before and it is one of the veteran tenor's best. With strong assistance from pianist Barry Harris, bassist Sam Jones and drummer Al Foster, Dexter plays exciting solos on &I'll Remember April,& a warm version of &Skylark& and his two originals, &Apple Jump& and &A La Modal.& It is highly recommended, as are all of Dexter Gordon's SteepleChase recordings from this period.