There can be no room for backsliding in a power trio as led by Jimmy Smith. Though he was well served by a string of competent guitarists that included Thornel Schwarz, Eddie McFadden and Quentin Warren, it was when the ‘Incredible’ was teamed with Kenny Burrell that he truly upped his game. With Burrell often taking the lead with clear-ringing lines, the general impression here is one of restraint rather than all-out assault. With stealth they skilfully manoeuvre their way through a selection of mainly familiar standards (‘There's A Small Hotel’, ‘Bye Bye Blackbird’, ‘Since I Fell For You’ etc), while an outstanding rendition of Monk's ‘Hackensack’ and Duke's ‘Mood Indigo’ are added to this rich mix. In support, drummers Art Blakey, Donald Bailey and Philly Joe Jones all fulfilled their respective roles with sympathetic ease. In all, a well thought out compilation which showcases both Smith and Burrell at their best.