The NYC version of Vital Transformation is an altogether more swinging, even boppish incarnation than the fusion feel often associated with Smith’s bands. And that more classic jazz inclination is reflected here with the band peppering the album with a series of iconic covers, cooked their way. So, Cole Porter’s ‘I Love You’ gets an almost pastiche intro, all brushes and Valentino’s crystal-clear tone covering the melody: but once the band cuts in piece by piece, building a lush swing, wham, in comes the vamp and we’re off to rock. ‘I’m an Old Cowhand’ is likewise affectionately covered with Smith relishing that wonky Shelly Manne rhythm, but it’s Soskin’s joyous piano that steals the show, but with no little competition from Browne’s bass bounce. But alongside the likes of ‘Mr PC’ and ‘Cherokee’ (done funky slow over glistening Rhodes) there’s originals aplenty, as you’d expect from such a writer-rich team. Not the least, Smith’s love of Indian music erupts on ‘Charukeshi Express’ with Brooks’ sax and drones deepening the mix around Smith’s overdubbed konnakol vox and spectacular drums. A real treat, as is the whole album.