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This album is quite a sizable step outside for the celebrated Latin trumpet player, as Arturo Sandoval sets his main axe aside for a session of straight-up bop and blues tunes behind a grand piano. While he has never been shy with the brass, Sandoval plays with a similar verve and bravado behind the keyboards, displaying an articulate dexterity and wiseacre flash common to his  work. 

Whether peeling off Chick Corea-like nimble solos runs for "Blues In F," while balancing the chordal complexities of "All The Things You Are," Sandoval matches wits with a sly smile on his face. While a few folks might consider this release an underachievement due to Sandoval's hot-doggin' handiwork (the sizzling Latin workout of the old chestnut "Stella By Starlight" will probably be sacrilegious to some older listeners), the affable musician does offer a pair of ballads ("Time Before" and Sandoval's   own "Marianela Says Goodbye") that reveal a careful caress and candid expression to his keystrokes. 

As his trumpet work has proven, whatever Sandoval may lack in nuance he makes up for in unadulterated fun. Enjoy the moment!