The sharp press rolls, form-marking accents and rhythmic drive that mark Ulysses Owens Jrs’ approach to drumming are steeped in the legacy of Art Blakey, albeit laced with hints of shuffles and soul. Covers of compositions by Cannonball Adderley, Roy Hargrove and George Cables confirm the broad outlines of that approach. Owens, through his seven-year professorship at Juilliard, is also following Blakey’s path as talent scout and mentor.

Owens founded Generation Y four years ago as a vehicle to hone the small-group acoustic jazz skills of a select group of his students. And, on the evidence of this debut release, lessons have been well learned. The opener, Adderley’s 'Sticks' finds Benny Bernack III and Sarah Hanahan blowing up a storm on trumpet and alto sax and Anthony Hervey captures the lyricism of the late Roy Hargrove’s 'Soulful.' The experienced Milton Suggs guests on the gospel-tinged waltz 'Heartful of Rhythm'.

Three in-style compositions by members of the band fit neatly in. Hervey’s ‘Better Days’ switches from second-line shuffle to modern jazz swing, Bernack’s 'London Towne' is slinky and the ballad 'Until I See You Again', by pianist Luther Allison, is beautifully worked and the album’s standout track. The set finishes with Ray Bryant’s 'Chicken and Dumplings', a frequent Blakey set-closer.

Solid showcase and a special mention for bassist Phillip Norris for adding contemporary moves to Owens’ accents and prods.