Steve Holt’s Impact doesn’t take us down unexpected or unexplored paths, but rather the well-trodden paths of the great hard bop school of the late ’50s and early ’60s. Shorter, Morgan and Herbie Hancock (specifically, by the way, with a tribute to his “Maiden Voyage”) are commonly recalled, at least for those whose ears are tuned to this language. That said, it’s done with confidence, respect and a reasonable dose of originality to make for a satisfying listening experience in every respect, a commented, educated and refined appreciation of Tradition.
Conservative, solid and thoughtful jazz.
