Out Front
(Motema Records)

Veteran bassist Rufus Reid’s latest is not only a showcase for his versatility and virtuosity, but the work of an incredible trio of artists, that feels as good as it sounds. Reid is joined by pianist Steve Allee and drummer Duduka Da Fonseca for a 9-track set that swings hard at times, then slows to venture down beautiful balladic sideroads. Most of the compositions are provided by Reid, with contributions by Allee and Da Fonseca, The trio also offers their take on songs by Marco Silva and Eddie Harris, and Reid’s intro to Tadd Dameron’s “If You Could See Me Now” would have worked just fine as solo, but on this track as well as all those on the project demonstrate that he, in the words of an old school report card, does play well with others.