1. The Gatekeeper
2. Joao
3. Sufi
4. Racatu
5. Jamuba
6. Round Trip
7. A Caballo
8. Rooftop Samba
9. Yambu
10. Outono
 
 
Shanti Paul Jayasinha – Trumpet
Patrick Clahar – Tenor sax
John Crawford – Piano
Andres Lafone – Bass guitar
Davide Giovannini – Drums 
Guests: Tim Garland, Alex Wilson and others
All tunes composed and arranged by the leader.
Recorded between 2003 & 2006 

This is a very talented band of young musicians, led by Shanti Paul Jayasinha who lives in London and has played with Tim Garland, John Etheridge, Michael Garrick and many others. He has also played on many ‘pop’ records and works as a musical educator. 

The tunes reflect many styles and the music of many countries and every composition is entirely different. It makes for stimulating listening, although in some parts the jazz content is subjugated to allow for the unusual rhythms. It does not happen very often and I found the music well worth the time invested in listening to it. 

Although it is not mentioned on the sleeve, Shanti plays some very nice flugel on some tracks. On track 4 voices are used to back the leader’s theme statement and there are several nice solos on this Latin-based composition. I particularly liked Patrick Clahar's tenor solo. 

The rhythm section is good throughout; they play neatly, but never forget to swing at every opportunity! The title track is an interesting composition: it has a calypso feel and it has a familiar sound which helps the listener greatly on a first hearing. It would make a good standard for any jazz outfit wanting to include something with this kind of rhythm into their programme. Track 7 is an attractive jazz waltz; Shanti plays a fine controlled solo with excellent tone and execution and he is well supported by the excellent rhythm section. He is followed by John Crawford whose piano playing is a delight all through the record. 

This record will stay on my player for some time. This is a very fine band and for once the original compositions are not just an excuse to avoid paying royalties! Shanti, you have my congratulations, this is an excellent album that I recommend without hesitation. 
Don Mather