The Danny Moss / Roy Williams Quintet - Steamers! (1999)

British born/Australian resident Danny Moss sports a classic tenor saxophone sound that resembles the cool of Zoot Sims. Williams is simply one of the greatest of the swing-era type trombonists. Together with pianist John Pearce, bassist Len Skeat, and drummer Charly Antolini, they make some well defined hot jazz that any traditionalist can love. At their most fervent, the quintet breezes through deft and quick changes for "Them There Eyes," Johnny Hodges' more obscure "Hiya," a bristling midtempo "There Is No Greater Love," and "I've Found a New Baby," all with the solid melodicism a tenor trombone tandem can provide. The easier swingers roll along with aplomb and class, "Just in Time," "It's Alright with Me," and "You're My Everything" are perfect examples of this seemingly effortless yet dynamic quality. The really slow numbers -- "Lil' Darlin'," Too Late Now," and "Mood Indigo" -- have a more breathy Moss and an in-waiting Williams toning it down beautifully. The surprise of the date is an atypically up version of Jan Savitt's "It's a Wonderful World," not that it's just upbeat, but that anyone would do this, as opposed to "What a Wonderful World," the Louis Armstrong pop tune. Pearce really shines on his solo for this one, proving his mettle as an equal partner in the band. Williams' shining moments occur throughout, but check his lead on "Isn't It Romantic," where there's no doubt he ranks with the Carl Fontanas, J.J. Johnsons, and Frank Rosolinos of the jazz world. The combination of Moss and Williams is as dynamic as any in jazz no matter the style, the cat's meow to be sure. Highly recommended.