AMG Review of Together Again for the First Time

Brian Bartolini
All Music Guide

Together Again for the First Time is a wonderfully recorded, energetic, and highly accessible bop set by the Red Records All Stars. Each of the players lends at least one of his own compositions to the session. Among the best of these are Victor Lewis' lyrical "De Voyeur A Voyeur," Bobby Watson's groovy romp "That's All Folks!!!," and Kenny Barron's frenetic "New York Attitude." The recording is bright and clean, the group sound is tight and fresh. Much of the playing is brilliant, especially up front from Watson and Bergonzi. Bergonzi in particular benefits from this setting as well as Watson's presence next to him; his solos are focused and alert. This may have been the first time this all-star crew came together, but it should not be the last. Together Again for the First Time is a very enjoyable, highly recommended album.