John Allred - Focused (1998)

There have been a mere handful of outstanding jazz trombonists and John Allred has the tools to join the fraternity. He's developed a fat tone and tremendous chops while exploring a wide range of music, including a blistering version of Dave Brubeck's "Blues for Mister Broadway" and a brisk samba arrangement of Keith Jarrett's "Lucky Southern," though neither song is common fare for horn players. He also handles standards with a distinct sound, with an upbeat "Love for Sale" that also features tenor saxophonist Red Wertz and a brilliant duet with pianist Richard Drexler on the classic "My Romance." Allred also proves his skill as a composer with the warm ballad "My Inclination" and the bluesy "Red Leopard."~ Review by Ken Dryden