This review is another about brass instruments, but I promise that will change next time!

As I mentioned a few weeks ago in reviewing Manhattan Wildlife Refuge, it was a key influence for me as a young musician. Another important disk for me, from the same artist, is The Tiger Of San Pedro by Bill Watrous. Like the Manhattan disk, it's for a classic big band, but shows the same 1970s eclecticism of lush ballads, a latin-themed number, a bit of what passes for funky, and a fairly traditional showpiece chart at the end.

This disk isn't quite as much fun as the other album, lacking some of the sense of fun--and showing off--that makes the first Wildlife album such a joy. Mr. Watrous is still heard on every number, showing his dazzling trombone skills and pure, lush lyrical style, while Danny Stiles is also present on the trumpet (although he sounds less sure of himself than before, while Mr. Watrous shows fine consistency). There are precious other solos outside of these two musicians and the rhythm section seems a bit less unrestrained, to the detriment of the band's sound. Still, the arrangements here are first rate and the band is still impressive, ranging from a beautifully sensitive approach to color on "Quiet Lady" to a huge, brassy roar on the re-worked version of "Sweet Georgia Brown".

After the great success of Manhattan Wildlife Refuge, this disk can be a bit of a letdown. The ear wants to have as much fun as last time. I think it's common for any group's second recording after a notable debut (cliché alert: call it a "sophomore slump"), but a careful listen still reveals a rewarding disk where the group still swings and prances with abandon. Enjoy!

7 out of 10

CDs listened to today:

• LTJ Bukem: Journey Inwards
• Nick Didkovsky: Amalia's Secret
• Alan Hovhaness: Mountains And Rivers Without End
• Nitzer Ebb: Belief