The Panther is an energetic and inspiring record by one of the icons of jazz. With the help of a rhythm section with bassist Larry Ridley, drummer Alan Dawson and pianist Tommy Flanagan, tenor saxophonist Dexter Gordon brings everything to the boil. Gorden was always less influenced by avant-garde jazz than contemporaries Coltrane and Rollins, but his straightforward approach nowhere detracts from
… his spectacular skills as an improviser. Gorden contributes three of his own compositions, but surprises with a version of Body And Soul. His version is not inferior to Coleman Hawkins' ultimate interpretation of this ballad, thanks to Gordon's impressive control, robust sound and inventive melody wrapping.more
