When one hears this early
Eddie Daniels set, it is surprising to realize that he would remain in relative obscurity for almost another 20 years. As shown on the three of the eight selections on which he plays clarinet,
Daniels even at this early stage ranked near the top, while his tenor playing on the remaining numbers was already personal and virtuosic. With the assistance of the
Thad Jones/
Mel Lewis rhythm section of the time (pianist
Roland Hanna, bassist
Richard Davis and drummer
Mel Lewis),
Daniels is in top form on three standards, four originals and the pop tune "Spanish Flea."
–
Scott Yanow, Rovi