The Search Within [Slimline] (CD - 2009)

While working in a mainstream context, contemporary Ohioan trumpeter Sean Jones is far from the staid Young Lions of the early 1980s. For instance, he's unafraid to infuse his brand of neo-hard bop with easygoing crossover-type elements (shimmering electric piano, smoothly melodious flute) and his originals possess a bright, easily accessible ambiance. Make no mistake--Jones's music is still straight-ahead jazz, albeit with a sweet coating. His approach has the technique and fortitude of hard-bop masters Kenny Dorham and Freddie Hubbard but the charm and melodiousness of Chris Botti and Chuck Mangione. minimize