First Insight (CD) by Jesse Davis

CD. Despite a bit of raving about his abilities, Jesse Davis at the time of this recording was a solid if not particularly original alto saxophonist. His sound was heavily influenced by Cannonball Adderley with touches of Phil Woods. He was joined here by pianist Mulgrew Miller, bassist Ron Carter, drummer Kenny Washington and (on six of the nine numbers) guitarist Peter Bernstein. Davis contributed all nine of the often complex selections, none of which are destined to become standards, although several are quite colorful. Davis, who takes a good-humored vocal on "A Funny Thing," shows strong potential for the future, although this effort does not really stand apart from the crowd. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi