October 2010 CD of the Month

Houston Person’s latest recording is another stellar showcase of his blues-drenched, soulful sax playing that reflects his Southern roots. On Moment to Moment, Mr. Person is accompanied by the explosive trumpeter-Terell Stafford in a collection of swinging tunes and as always, exquisite ballads played in Houston’s inimitable style. Special guest guitarist Randy Johnston is heard on 2 selections adding spice to the A-list rhythm section of John Di Martino, Ray Drummond and Willie Jones III.

Originally from Florence, South Carolina Houston began playing the piano then switched to saxophone as a teenager which led him to a stint in the U.S. Army jazz band. After leaving the Army in the mid-1960s Houston settled in New York City where he helped pioneer the soul jazz movement. Over the decades Houston has recorded over 75 albums including many with the late vocalist Etta Jones for whom he was also her touring band music director. Person is also a renowned producer of recording sessions for the HighNote Records label, his home for over 15 years. On Moment To Moment Houston Person proves once again that he always has a winning hand!