Tom Harrell, Kenny Werner, Andre Ceccarelli, Paul Imm - Sail Away (1991)

Not to be confused with the Contemporary CD by the same name, this CD originates from a live date at the Alligators in Paris, with pianist Kenny Werner, bassist Paul Imm and drummer Andre Ceccarelli joining Harrell, who sticks to flugelhorn. Other than a brilliant "Yesterdays," heard with an inspired duo introduction by Harrell and Werner, the rest of the material consists of strong originals. The gentle bossa nova "Sail Away," the infectious rhythm of "Gratitude" and the dramatic ballad "Glass Mystery" all show why Harrell became one of the most respected jazz composers of the 1990s. Werner's lively "Sticky Wicket" is challenging, though without a chance of messing up the outstanding musicians playing it.