Bassist Martin Wind has appeared on more than 80 CDs and movie soundtracks, and is a pillar of groups led by pianists Bill Mays and Don Friedman, drummer Matt Wilson, and pianist/singer Dena DeRose. Salt n" Pepper! is a rare outing for Wind as leader, and reveals talents that go beyond his enviable bass chops and big ears. For one thing, the CD really showcases his formidable gifts as composer, since seven of the ten tunes are his. The others are Ellington and Evans classics, and a jaunty version of Monk"s rarely-heard "Bright Mississippi," which was written over the changes to "Sweet Georgia Brown." Wind"s good taste, versatility, and dry humor are also evident throughout in his producer"s choice of sound, pacing, and arrangements.