Jon Sheckler, the New Orleans based drummer, puts his guitarists, Mike Clement (right channel) and Christos Melios (left channel), out front and center on Highway 27. The drummer also gives bassist Jim Greene the nod to open the session on the struttin’ street beat of “50 Ring Gauge.” Naturally, it’s the leader laying down the rhythmic foundation of the tune adding bops and cymbal flourishes particularly at its closing. It, like all of the material on the recording, comes from Sheckler’s pen.

Up next is the slow groove of “Eephus,” that boasts an altogether pleasing melody that is maintained primarily by the strum of a guitar allowing the other guitar freedom to improvise. It’s a formula that with variations is successfully utilized throughout the album due to the expertise of the guitarists.

Considering a drummer leads the session, the gentleness of much of the material might come somewhat as a surprise. Though he certainly contributes to the album’s overall demeanor, Sheckler‘s prominence here is that of a composer and, as heard on his “A Day in the Sun,” a man of romance. Its melodic structure, interplay between the stringed instruments and overall ambiance makes it a particularly beautiful selection.

There’s some swingin’ happening on “Cloud Touches” on which the drummer dives in when the rhythm changes course. More electronics are employed on the rock-ish “Abednego.”

The album closes in the high-spirited mood of the energetic, danceable “Mish Mash.” With everyone fully involved, it’s a just a fun way to finish up a test drive on the totally enjoyable Highway 27.