The superb Straight Up captures Harold Vick's shift away from the lithe tenor/organ sessions of his previous work toward the bold soul-jazz of his finest recordings.

Supported by an unusual but effective lineup featuring guitarist Everett Barksdale, vibist Warren Chiasson, bassist Walter Booker, and drummer Hugh Walker, Vick alternates between tenor, soprano, and flute, greatly expanding the parameters of his sound while maintaining the simplicity that is his hallmark.

Above all, he remains a remarkably expressive player, communicating more in one or two notes than most reedists say over the span of an entire song.