Dave Valentin - Musical Portraits (1991)

Joined by his usual sidemen of the period (a rhythm section led by pianist Bill O'Connell), flutist Dave Valentin is the main soloist on an appealing if not particularly unique program of Latin-tinged and generally funky jazz. When he stretches out, as on "Firecracker," Valentin shows that he could become one of the best jazz flutists, but thus far he has not quite lived up to his potential. Still, this is, overall, a pleasing effort.

Review by Scott Yanow