★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
On this short, six-track album, Oliver Nelson showcases his saxophone talent as well as a great ear for arrangements. Since jazz doesn't usually have words, you have to try to listen for the ideas. Sometimes I have no idea what the songs are trying to say and sometimes I do. Some of these pieces, like "Yearnin'," are a bit strident in their virtuosity. But most of this album has you nodding and snapping along, until it grabs you by the shirt front and smacks you with a well-crafted solo. This is the kind of music that sneaks up on you. Favorite tracks: "Stolen Moments," "Hoe Down," "Cascades."
