by Scott Yanow
Always one of the most tasteful of musicians, guitarist Kenny Burrell is in fine form on this set from 1996. He is joined by a rhythm section led by pianist Sir Roland Hanna, trumpeter Jimmy Owens (who is in excellent form), either Steve Turre or Benny Powell on trombone and the underrated tenor-saxophonist and flutist Jerome Richardson. Burrell sings a heartfelt &Dear Ella& (his voice is just average) and there is a vocal apiece by Jeannie Bryson (a sensuous &I've Got A Crush On You&) and Vanessa Rubin (&All Blues&). Other highlights of this relaxed bop set include Scott Joplin's &The Entertainer,& Richardson's &Groove Merchant& and a medley of &Embraceable You& and Charlie Parker's &Quasimodo.&