Klaus Ignatzek - Return Voyage (1994)

Pianist Klaus Ignatzek salutes some of his favorite jazz musicians with original compositions dedicated in their honor. With his tightly knit group, including trumpeter Gustavo Bergalli, trombonist Jay Ashby, bassist Jean-Louis Rassinfosse, and drummer Adam Cruz, the leader is a competent pianist, though he seems to enjoy writing more for the ensemble than taking the spotlight much for himself. Igantzek's "Calling Mr. Gillespie" has a hint of the trumpeter's "Woody 'n You" within it, though the rhapsodic "Return Voyage" saluting Herbie Hancock is hardly derivative of his famous "Maiden Voyage." "An Oscar for Gigi" actually is for bassist Oscar Pettiford and Gigi Gryce, two giants of the 1950s who liked creating elaborate unison lines. The pianist's powerful "Flowers Around Midnight" (obviously a tribute to Thelonious Monk) showcases the rich horns of Bergalli and Ashby. This is a solid effort by a musician deserving wider recognition.