A Review of <I>In the Pocket</I> by Frank Rubolino on p.114 in Vol 27 No. 1, 
January 2001 of <I>Cadence</I> <HR>

Amid the lively strands of his very talented band, Peckman propels a swinging 
set of standards and originals.  He is a drummer with a brisk sense of time 
who very subtly dictates the direction of the combo through his rhythm 
patterns.  Peckman manages to control without being overt.  He allows the 
group members free rein toward self-expression while the undercurrent of his 
drumming forms the backbone of the tunes.  Each player is a featured artist 
on the disc.  Guitarist Campbell pours out chorus after chorus of lyrical 
phrases with ringing clarity, pianist O'Brien probes the keyboard with 
puntuating zeal, reed player Mossblad plays with melodic intensity on 
soprano and tenor, and bassist Mantel makes his lead statements with 
sensitivity when on call.  As a unit, they all come together neatly to jam 
in a quiet way.<HR>

The group shines brightly on favorites such as "Caravan" and "Old Folks," 
and they gel with equal enthusiasm on the original pieces.  Campbell wrote 
three selections, two of which tranquily highlight his lovely tone and 
phrasing.  Mossblad, who appears on only four songs, added the closing 
Caribbean high-stepper where everyone joins in the carnival.  Campbell's 
"Mambo Puente" is an excellent vehicle from which Peckman can spring.  
Behind a reiterative piano refrain, Peckman carves out the delightful 
Latin beat.  His drum rolls on the bluesy "Bomp Bomp" keep the pace hopping, 
and he adds an engaging samba beat to several cuts.  The recording is a 
delightful blend of low-intensity rhythms that allows Peckman to direct 
traffic while his teammates share the spotlight.  It is a fine group effort.
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