Here's a nice surprise. Real hard-bop fans aren't catered for too well these days, but you really will enjoy this offering recorded in France. And it introduces two exceptional French musicians, whose names are totally new to this writer – altoist Horellou, 43 and pianist Etienne Desconfin, 28. Both appear to have worked with some adventurous American musicians – such as tenorist Abraham Burton and Ari Hoenig, and the highly regarded drummer Kush Abadey, as well as Jeremy Pelt. Horellou is certainly the most exciting altoist I've heard in ages and Deconfin is a fervent fan of Keith Jarrett and McCoy Tyner. Harmonically and rhythmically, John Coltrane seems to be the strongest influence on both, especially the latter. On this new 2017 album, all the originals (except the distinctive opener, ‘Melody’ by Deconfin) are by Horellou, starting with the appropriately entitled ‘The Gale Force’, an equally good alternate take of which closes out a terrific CD. Nyberg and Paganotti make an aggressive rhythm team behind the soloists, who are joined by guest star Jeremy Pelt in hard-hitting form. The originals are all carefully put together and inspire the entire group. Thoroughly recommended.