Many of Ellis Marsalis' recordings feature other players but this collection features Ellis himself, backed by drums and bass on most tracks. His arrangements show lyricism, humor and great facility. No honky-tonk piano here — his instrument is obviously a big, in-tune, grand piano, maybe a Steinway. Traditional songs, traditional jazz, varied in emotion, and very satisfying.

Ellis is a genius, whether you hear him on CD or if you got to hear him live at Snug Harbor... This album gets comments every time I play it, and I NEVER tire of it. His timing is amazing and unique. You need this album - that's all there is to it.