Benny Green

The 2007 All-Stars had the Festival's 50th season to celebrate, and there are pieces here that make the album more than a mere memento. Pianist Benny Green, veteran sax man James Moody and a potent young rhythm section are joined for half the set each by trumpeter Terence Blanchard and singer Nnenna Freelon. Things get started right with a vibrant "Bebop"; it's especially nice to hear the undiminished octogenarian Moody solo here and on "Monterey Mist." Blanchard's solos shine throughout, and the innuendo-laden duet between Nnenna and Moody on "Just Squeeze Me" is charming.