This 1992 release of future jazz solo artists is a classic from the beginning. Guitarist Russ Freeman had put together an ensemble of talented musicians that looked like an all-star team by todays standard. Maybe that’s why he often said that the group’s name came from the phrase “those guys can rip….” Jeff Kashiwa’s sax and EWI is featured throughout the disc while intertwined with Freeman’s riffs. Steve Reid adds punch and flair with his multi-faceted percussion. Mark Portman’s harmonies via keyboard add rich layers as in “Weekend in Monaco.” Kim Stone’s pounding bass pushes the up-tempo songs (“Highroller”) to new highs while offering a good backdrop to the slower ones. Finally, Tony Morales accompanies the cast on drums. David Benoit adds piano to the band on “Weekend In Monaco” and “Tourist In Paradise.” Carl Anderson also adds some vocals to “Paradise.” Mix in a great horn section of Paul Carmen (alto sax), Matt Fronke (trumpet) and Wendall Kelly (trombone), and you have one awesome band.

Many of the title tracks to their previous discs are here (“Aspen,” “Curves Ahead,” and “Tourist in Paradise”) and keep the set fresh. “Indian Summer” is tight from the start and shows why the band was such a joy to see in concert. Reid’s birdcalls are heard on “One Summer Night In Brazil” as it opens to Freeman’s guitar and Stone’s accompanying bass. “Morocco” is another toe tapper from Freeman that features most of the band at various stages.

Thankfully there’s a video that goes along with this disc. It’s a joy to watch, and always a lot of fun to listen to. If there were ever one disc to start a collection, it would be by this collection of “all stars” on this one night in L.A.

Harvey Cline