Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

If you're a fan of jazz, bassist Paul Kimber's quartet will be an absolute must. Opening with the light and breezy title track, this album fair skips along. Ben Castle's sax playing is a delight throughout, especially on the storming "The Flying Joey" where he just sounds as if he's having a lot of fun! Such infectious playing by all four contributors makes this a classy set. Paul Kimber's fluid bass playing underpins the proceedings and there's plenty of opportunities to enjoy his soloing, most notably on "Swing Thing" which, err, swings! Elsewhere. Phil Crabbe's exuberant drumming drives things along, especially on the closing "Happy" which is my favourite. "Must Be A Boon" and "9 O'Clock Midnight" have a tender late night feel and I'd love to check this lot out at a club! Especially to hear Nick Lacey's fabulous well judged mellow piano playing! The semi epic "Slieve Loughshannon" is inspired by the area of Ireland where Kimber was raised and gives Ben Castle the opportunity to play some lyrical soprano sax. (Actually, it's good to hear Ben have the opportunity to move away from playing albums full of choruses!). You can tell by now that 1 love this. Paul Kimber's offering is accomplished jazz, excellent musicianship and what's more this fine album is topped off by some very special artwork from Jonathan Kearney. A class act all round.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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