This is a more lyrical shift for the young American trumpeter whose initial albums were mainly modern bop in theme. Obviously, Hargrove is keen to spread his wings as this "with strings" album follows the marvellous Cuban inspired Habana. Moment to Moment has orchestral arrangements, that pull the listener into their lush velvety textures. The result is like a comfortable armchair moulding itself around your body as you relax on a rainy afternoon (which makes it the direct opposite of the very hot evening feel of Habana). All of the 12 tracks are ballads and in addition to three originals contain interpretations of songs by the masters of balladry. The title track for example is a Henry Mancini/Johnny Mercer number. Elsewhere names of the ilk of Sammy Cahn, Frank Sinatra and Johnny Mandel appear. On all of them Hargrove's trumpet weaves through the beautiful arrangements managing to combine strength and delicacy. A gentle giant indeed. Moment to Moment is one of those lovely warm welcoming jazz albums that can soothe away even the direst of days.--Phil Brett