The title of this album, Ben’s Bop, pretty much tells what’s going on, though it could easily have been call “Ben’s Bebop.” The album gets a strong start hitting on Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers’ “Ugetsu,” which was composed by the great pianist Cedar Walton when he was in drummer Blakey’s band. Considering it makes sense that pianist Yoshitaka “Z2” Tsuji—perhaps best known for his work with trumpeter Kermit Ruffins—is featured and really goes for it. He boasts a two-handed style with the right and left hand enjoying total independence. Bassist and leader Ben Fox, a long time New Orleans transplant, is with him all the way driven by the drums of Tanner Guss. Saxophonist Marty Peters blows some fine, inventive, in-the-mode solos.

The sax man naturally leads off on fellow saxophonist Benny Golson’s classic “Stablemates,” that was first recorded by trumpet master Miles Davis. Fox gets a chance to stretch out here while displaying the rich tone of his well-recorded instrument. He takes the opportunity to open the easy-going “Taffy.” It’s a sweet number as exemplified by the gentle way each of the musicians approach it. The album swings out with the toe-tapping “Afternoon in Paris.”

Beboppers should appreciate Ben’s Bop as it respects the special era and is presented with care and enthusiasm by these talented musicians.