by Scott YanowPhil Woods was only 22 at the time of this program (reissued on CD), but he was already an explosive and very talented bop-oriented altoist. This obscure set, one of his earliest recordings, has seven group originals, plus the lone standard "Mad About the Boy," and is full of excitement. Woods, trumpeter Jon Eardley, pianist George Syran, bassist Teddy Kotick and drummer Nick Stabulas all display both youthful energy and a strong knowledge of Charlie Parker's innovations, making this an essential, if little-known acquisition for bop collectors.