Change is never bad, just different. The forth Posi-Tone release for Gold finds two stellar horn players to replace the use of guitar on the previous three outings and with surprising results. Saxophonist Ralph Bown and trumpeter Jim Rotundi add freshness and depth to the eight composition where Gold compositions are featured on five selections and Jim Rotondi, Ralph Bowen, and Quincy Davis compositions round out this tight release and new musical chapter in Gold’s Posi-Tone discography.

The Gold tune “Mama Said” kicks off the fun with both horn players working through the swinging head and a deceptively subtle soul groove starts to build around the traded solos along with the finesse of drummer Davis. While each member contributes at least one composition, Ralph Bowen’s “Midnight Snack” is a syncopated adventure in odd meter punctuated with the rhythmic pop and vitality of what sounds like a working band having played together for a great many years. Bowen’s passion is certainly felt through the lyrical intensity of his playing and in turns spreads like wildfire throughout this formidable 4tet. “Dark Blue” is the sexy Rontondi composition which follows and intensity may be dialed back the passion is no less evident and is part of an intoxicating ebb and flow that envelopes All Wrapped Up. The Gold tune “Mama Said” has an intriguing all most retro vibe. A soulful groove you can use. “Just A Suggestion” closes this soulful romp with Bowen’s solo alone worth the price of the release. An odd metered tune but Gold is masterful is not building an entire release around the odd meter or harmonization of the melodies so as to become a member of the flavor of the month club. The addition of the two horn players is a stroke of genius as they in turn open Gold’s sound by highlighting some of the more soulful qualities and find Gold channeling his inner Larry Young or a young Jimmy Smith.

The creative juices flow deep on All Wrapped Up with Gold proving yet again he may be a relatively new shooter in the world of jazz organ but he is the real deal. All Wrapped Up is a virtually flawless release where Gold welcomes you to the land of rhythm and groove!