John Pizzarelli - Naturally (1993)

John Pizzarelli's second Novus CD features the singer/guitarist with his regular trio (which also has pianist Ken Levinsky and brother Martin Pizzarelli on bass), an expanded rhythm section (including father Bucky Pizzarelli on rhythm guitar) and as many as 15 horns. Among the other soloists are tenors Scott Robinson, Harry Allen and Frank Wess, clarinetist Walt Levinsky and trumpeters Clark Terry and Tony Kadleck. Pizzarelli, who sings about half the songs, takes plenty of fine, melodic guitar solos. Most of the repertoire is comprised of swing standards -- including "I'm Confessin'," "When I Grow Too Old To Dream" and "I Cried for You" -- but the highlights also include a four-song "Baby" medley, "Seven on Charlie" (based on "Solo Flight"), and Dave Frishberg's clever "Slappin' the Cakes on Me."