For years the tenor saxophone player of choice for Ray Charles and instrumental in defining the singer's unmistakable style, David 'Fathead' Newman makes his HighNote Records debut. Called 'Fathead' for his voluminous knowledge of music, David possesses a soulful Texas horn sound, expressive and heart-felt. David's musical vocabulary is "of the moment" without resorting to the type of "out there" playing which alienates so many listeners. With a wide spectrum of music, from Dimitri Tiomkin's lush "Return to Paradise" to Hamp's "Red Top" to standards like "These Foolish Things", Newman communicates through his music, speaking directly to the listener. In addition to Fathead's reed work, including turns on flute, soprano, alto and tenor, the album boasts fine contributions from John Hicks on piano and Winard Harper on drums.

David 'Fathead' Newman- tenor saxophone/soprano saxophone/alto saxophone/flute; Bryan Carrott- vibraphone; John Hicks- piano; Steve Novosel- bass; Winard Harper- drums; Cadino Newman- vocals

Tracks: Take the Coltrane; Return to Paradise; The Whole Tzimmes; These Foolish Things; Invitation; Chillin'; Caravan; Red Top.

 Take the Coltrane

 Return to Paradise

 These Foolish Things