The Dan Barrett Octet - Strictly Instrumental (1987)

Trombonist Dan Barrett utilizes some of the top younger players of pre-bop in this delightful octet session. In addition to Barrett, the lineup includes cornetist Warren Vache; Ken Peplowski on clarinet and tenor; altoist Chuck Wilson; the late, great pianist Dick Wellstood; guitarist Howard Alden; bassist Jack Lesberg; and drummer Jackie Williams. Together, they play a variety of high-quality standards, including relative obscurities such as "No Regrets," Hoagy Carmichael's "Moon Country," and "There's Honey on the Moon Tonight." The concise solos and Barrett's clever arrangements make this a particularly memorable release.