Stanton Davis - Manhattan Melody (1988)

Trumpeter Stanton Davis, who has a wide range and impressive technique, pays a tribute of sorts to New York City through seven of his compositions, a collaboration with Carl Stoermer and one song by the latter. Essentially a pianoless quartet date with atmospheric sounds from Stoermer's electronic percussion, the changing grooves, vamps and themes range in style from Lester Bowie (Davis played in his Brass Fantasy) to late-period Miles Davis and a touch of Freddie Hubbard. Stanton Davis has a fairly original and attractive sound along with a flexible style that allows him to sound somewhat accessible in the complex settings. Dave Mann gets to do some wailing on his reeds (alto, flute and best on soprano) while bassist Mark Dresser and drummer Vinny Johnson are alert and supportive of the lead voices. This is an intriguing disc that grows in interest with each listen.