Mike Metheny - Kaleidoscope (1988)

Mike Metheny's second of two Impulse recordings is mostly electronic, with Brad Hatfield utilizing a variety of then-modern keyboards. The flugelhornist/leader doubles on a Steiner E.V.I. (electronic valve instrument) on some numbers, which waters down his tone a bit. With bassist Marshall Wood and drummer John Riley completing the quartet, Metheny performs several group originals, Duke Ellington's "Star Crossed Lovers," and Freddie Hubbard's "Straight Life." In general, the music is atmospheric and sometimes a bit dreamy, and sets a thoughtful mood.