Cape Verde

This is the fifth and final release by the George Robert/Tom Harrell Quintet, taped during a pair of Swiss concerts in 1992. As in previous outings, the alto saxophonist and trumpeter/flüegelhornist are in top form and each musician also contributed strong originals as well; the potent rhythm section includes the underrated pianist Dado Moroni, bassist Reggie Johnson, and drummer Byron Landham. Harrell's snappy post-bop strut "Streets" features his flüegelhorn, plus fines solos by Robert and Johnson. An extended version of "Sail Away," an emotional driving samba that is also one of Harrell's best known compositions, is another highlight. Robert's rich ballad "Softly" also has a Latin feel to it, while his hard bop "Cape Verde" is clearly inspired by Horace Silver. The only work not composed by either co-leader is "Morning Star," by Rodgers Grant; this highly enjoyable work features an extensive solo by Moroni. The Robert/Harrell Quintet knew how to go out on top!