Bob Wilber - A Man & His Music (1996)

The most unusual aspect of this Bob Wilber CD is that, in addition to his usual clarinet and sopranos (both curved and straight), he also plays a bit of alto and tenor. Wilber's tenor (heard on four of the 14 numbers) is a bit of a revelation, for his thick tone is reminiscent of Coleman Hawkins. Joined by pianist Mick Pyne, guitarist Dave Cliff, bassist Dave Green and drummer Bobby Worth, Wilber performs five originals, a couple of surprisingly modern pieces ('Django" and "Lazy Afternoon"), and seven swing standards. An excellent set of mainstream jazz. ~Scott Yanow