Such is the association of the late multi-instrumentalist and restless seeker of universal musical knowledge with what is often called ‘Exotica’ it is easy to overlook Yusef Lateef's upbringing in one of the great Meccas of black music in America – Detroit. The tribute that he pays to the motor city on Detroit Latitude 42 30-Longitude 83 is Motownesque to say the least, and the deeply bluesy funky soul palette greatly recalls the likes of Junior Walker, though the leader's natural leaning to non-western music is brilliantly expressed on the scintillating Arabic groove of ‘Eastern Market’. The album is a timely reminder that the Atlantic label purveyed great instrumental dance music that did anything but compromise artistic standards. Mostly recorded a decade earlier, the material on Four Classic Albums gives a tantalising prelude to that sound in an acoustic rather than electric setting, highlighting Lateef's deep roots in modern jazz. Good mileage is drawn from standards such as Strayhorn's ‘Take The A Train’ and Dizzy's ‘Woody ‘n’ You’ while originals like ‘Iqbal’ reveal the full extent of Lateef's gifts as a composer and creator of engrossing ambiances. Lastly, the timbral range of the leader's formidable arsenal of reeds – argol, oboe, tenor sax, flute – is a great feast for open minds and ears.