Jim McNeely has ingeniously traced the musical milestones of Michael Brecker"s career through original compositions that evoke these periods. From the historic Brecker Brothers sound and his apprenticeship period with Horace Silver, this CD captures the essence of Brecker"s stylistic tendencies and incredible saxophone skills. McNeely"s arrangements are full of extraordinary counterpoint, evidenced right from the opening track. Rich harmonies and intricate orchestrations can be heard throughout. Of course, to achieve this you need the best musicians on the planet, which George Robert has gathered as the nucleus of his teaching staff at the Conservatory of Lausanne. The group"s fine ensemble work and soloist abilities are heard throughout the recording.