One of this year’s most anticipated releases is the new recording by New Orleans-born trumpeter Terence Blanchard. This is his first recording (with the exception of his work on the Mo’ Better Blues soundtrack) since the breakup of the celebrated group he co-led with alto saxophonist Donald Harrison. The result was well worth the wait. Along with bassist Rodney Whitaker and pianist Bruce Barth, Blanchard has invited Branford Marsalis and Jeff Watts in on tenor saxophone and drums respectively. Marsalis plays an incredible solo on Blanchard’s composition “Azania” while Watts plays remarkably on another Blanchard original, “Wandering Wonder.” Blanchard took time off for a couple of years trying to get rid of “‘imitations in trumpet technique,” according to Delfeayo Marsalis’ liner notes for the album. It seems that the practice has paid off. Just check out his work on “I’m Getting Sentimental Over You” and “Sing Soweto.” His ballad “Goodbye” showcases his mature ability to combine monstrous technique and simplicity into a striking and memorable event. Troy Davis (who really lights a fire underneath the rhythm section on Charlie Parker’s “Au Privave”) plays drums on four of the tracks. Sam Newsome, particularly on “Au Privave” shows evidence that he is someone to keep an ear on in the future. Delfeayo Marsalis’ production is, as usual, a model of meticulous clarity and a certain looseness at the same time. Highly recommended.