Spike Robinson - A Real Corker (1995)

Tenor saxophonist Spike Robinson has been quite consistent throughout his career. Influenced by Stan Getz and Zoot Sims, Robinson is virtually the last of the "Four Brothers" tenor stylists. For his typically joyful and swinging session, the veteran tenor is accompanied by guitarist Louis Stewart (who contributes a complementary second solo voice), bassist Red Mitchell and drummer Martin Drew. Although all nine songs are standards, most are not played all that often, and the treatments are fresh and enthusiastic. Highlights include "This Love of Mine," "I Remember You," a lengthy version of "Nearness of You," and "Breezin' Along With the Breeze." Well worth searching for. ~Scott Yanow