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Grant Stewart's first two Sharp Nine releases opened the ears of many jazz fans who were won over by his tremendous sound, technical facility and never-ending flow of musical ideas. These attributes remain fully on display as Stewart tackles the music of two of his favorite composers, Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. From the lush boudoir rendering of "Tonight I Shall Sleep" to a warp speed interpretation of "It Don't Mean a Thing," Stewart's treatment of these classic tunes is respectful of tradition even as he breathes new life into them. Sharing the solo spotlight is master pianist Tardo Hammer whose elegant lines and feathery touch serve as the perfect foil to Stewart's full-throated tenor.