Return Of The Candyman
On his fifth release, eight-string guitar virtuoso Charlie Hunter drops the horn section. Joined by long-standing drummer Scott Amendola, and new additions Stefon Harris on vibes and John Santos on percussion, Hunter unleashes a series of 13 groove-heavy numbers, including a cover of Steve Miller's "Fly Like an Eagle." The rhythm section is strong and Hunter's playing is masterful as always. Nevertheless, the individual tracks have a tendency to blur into one another due to the somewhat homogeneous sound of the vibraphone. It's a good effort, though not his best.--Percy Keegan