The tricky post-bop melodies, haunting modal ballads and funky slow burns on this excellent nine track set, were recorded in 2001, and capture the optimistic swagger of the acoustic mainstream early in the new millennium. The core band is an acoustic quintet featuring the leader's trumpet, either the late Michael Brecker or Ted Nash on saxophones and solid bass and drums. One session features piano, Xavier Davis in fine fettle, the other the smoother sounds of Steve Khan on guitar. Three tracks add synth, two percussion; ‘Ballad for BR’ features sonorous brass, rich horn harmonies and a brief mood-setting trombone break. The extra voices are well arranged, and contribute to a varied, well-paced and enjoyable set. At first glance, it is Michael Brecker's name that leaps off the sleeve. The two previously unissued tracks, ‘Counter Charge’ and ‘Whit's End’ capture him in imperious form, and justify the release on their own. But Ted Nash is hardly a slouch whether smouldering on ‘The Mask”, barnstorming over the shuffle of ‘The 12-Year Itch’ or capturing the bittersweet essence of the title-track, a gorgeous, richly-voiced ballad. Chris Rogers, leading from the front, is equally on song, playing with an assured tone, soloing with fire and spinning melodies like there's no tomorrow. Rogers began his jazz career aged 19 by replacing Tom Harrell as prime soloist in Gerry Mulligan's concert big band, went on to play with Dreams, the fusion band that featured the Brecker Brothers and has played at the top level ever since. Yet he remains just below the radar. Hopefully, this assured, somewhat belated showcase will kick-start wider recognition.