The European Jazz Ensemble are more occasional playmates than permanent fixture, and, perhaps wisely, keep tricky bits to a minimum. Tracks are long – a segue of ‘Ali’s Source & Ali’s Waltz’ lasts 25 minutes and the accurately titled ‘Riff’ more than a quarter of an hour. Overall, it’s a blowing session with Coltrane’s Africa/Brass in mind. But with Clark Tracy on drums, and founder members Ali Haurand and Rob van den Broeck on bass and piano, there is a solid core. And they clearly enjoy each other’s company. The most closely arranged piece is the opening ‘Tony’, written in memory of the late drummer, and one-time band member Tony Levin. Here, there is thematic development, playful subsidiary themes and a chord sequence to bite into. The other three tracks feature sketched melodies and forceful modal pedals driven by bandleader Haurand’s slightly too-prominent bass. The themes might be basic, but flute, trumpet and three saxophones make for a nice blend and each soloist has a strong voice, making the album a good listen. The contrast between Stan Sulzmann’s light-toned rhythmic articulation and Alan Skidmore’s fiery virtuosity is particularly pleasing. One carp; no details of where the recording is from, but presumably it’s a composite from their European tour.