The Boplicity series is proving invaluable for the light it shines on the unknowns as well as the known quantities in jazz, and this is a great case in point. Los Angeles-based tenor saxophonist-flautist Caliman actually went by the moniker ‘Little Dex’, in reference to a certain Mr Gordon, and more than held his own on the west coast scene. This session is a tasteful blend of gritty soul funk grooves and post-Trane modalism in which the leader's improvisatory strength is well served by a dynamic and responsive band. Indeed pianist Vuckovich also showcases his compositional ability on a few occasions, rounding off a programme that strikes a great balance between groove and guile. It makes the point that Bob Shad, who founded the Mainstream label from which the music is licensed, was a totally switched on A&R/producer.