Trumpet Evolution
It wouldn't seem possible to do a reasonable survey of the 20th century trumpet playing on one CD, but somehow trumpeter Arturo Sandoval has done just that. Known as an immensely gifted and versatile player, Sandoval tips his hat to such jazzmen asLouis Armstrong,Miles Davis, and his mentorDizzy Gillespie, as well as classical players such as Timofei Dokschizer and Maurice Andre. More than simply playing tunes these trumpeters made famous, Sandoval plays in the style of each trumpeter, even pulling signature quotes from their solos. It's a remarkable feat. WithQuincy Jonesat the production helm, the music and backing band changes according to the tributee--lush big band swing, bebop, organ jazz, classical, and Latin music are all covered. Surprisingly, there's not as much Latin jazz as you'd expect from the former member ofIrakere, but with so much ground covered, this is more of an observation than a complaint.--Tad Hendrickson