Fishwick’s note declares their collective hand in hoping that this album (and its Vol. 1 predecessor) will help increase awareness of the genius of Elmo Hope’s music. A strong sentiment perhaps, but one borne out by the complexity and sheer individuality of some of these pieces. Hope (1923-67) was a close associate of both Monk and Bud Powell and shared much with them stylistically. Though his career was cut short by addiction issues, he recorded often and left a compendium of some 75 intriguing compositions. It’s seven of these (plus two standards, as arranged by Hope) that this quintet tackles here, happy to echo Hope’s hard bop inclinations. They launch, first, into ‘So Nice’, sounding much like the Messengers, the theme quite quirky, Fishwick soloing in his idiosyncratic, linear manner, even reminding me of Woody Shaw as he skates through the harmonies. Gradischnig follows in muted Mobley fashion, his line unfurling fluently while Raible evokes Monk’s angularities and the group handles the tune’s ensemble intricacies with confidence. ‘Hot Sauce’ is quite exhilarating with Raible in imperious Powell-like form, each soloist in zippy mood, ahead of the ensemble riffs and the final dissonant chord. In fact, all nine pieces repay close attention, the ballad feeling of ‘Invitation’ offering contrast, Fishwick relaxed, Raible more spare; the harmonies always quite alluring. Home and Antoniou also solo with appropriate sensitivity and the whole endeavour just reeks class. This multi-national collaboration, first initiated in 2014, is of rare quality. Look out for them on tour.