Every one of Michael Pagan's tunes on this recording reveals fresh, original ideas, brilliantly extended and developed. Each chart is clearly conceived, and while tonality prevails in Pagan's writing, it is often veiled by added-note chords and chromaticism. His work is a model of big band arranging. In some ways his work suggests the Thad Jones school, although you can hear the influences of Bill Holman and Clare Fischer. He has put together an outstanding band that includes musicians like Greg Gisbert, John Hines, Brad Goode, and of course, the fine piano work of Pagan. Pagan was recognized by Downbeat magazine as a "Musician Deserving Wider Recognition."