Don Braden: Earth Wind and Wonder, Vol. 2

As on the first recording of this two-volume series, acclaimed tenor saxophonist Don Braden pays tribute to a couple of his coming-of-age idols, singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder and the genre-defying group Earth, Wind and Fire. Braden has chosen four of Wonder's compositions and three associated with EW&F to accompany a pair of his splendid original themes.

Braden plays tenor saxophone most of the way, flute and alto flute, respectively on Wonder's "Bird of Beauty" and "Creepin.'" Needless to say, he is superb on every instrument, summoning his many years of experience to enrich each song. For support, Braden has enlisted the services of pianists Art Hirahara (four tracks) and Miki Hayama (six), bassist Kenny Davis, drummer Jeremy Warren and (on three tracks) percussionist Kahlil Kwame Bell, all excellent choices. Bell lends solidity and substance to EW&F's "In the Stone" and "Reasons" and Wonder's "Creepin.'"

The choice of music is admirable, as Braden's originals, "Profusion" and "Arise," more than hold their own against impressive competition, opening with the swing/samba "In the Stone" and closing with another of EW&F's high-spirited themes, "That's the Way of the World." Wonder's medium-grooved "Master Blaster" is given an emphatic ride, as are his tender ballad "Send One Your Love," ardent "Bird of Beauty" and seductive "Creepin.'" Braden's high-stepping "Profusion" (inspired by a pair of Wonder's compositions) and fast-moving "Arise" find the leader at his outspoken best, as does the sleek and melodious "Reasons." While Braden takes the lion's share of solos, there are concise yet engaging statements along the way by Hirahara, Hayama and Davis.

Those who have followed Braden's long and rewarding career will know pretty much what to expect—tasteful music adeptly performed by an outstanding tenor saxophonist and his able supporting cast.