"Bigboy's Honor Beyond Reproach" is dedicated to my father, Charles H. Truxon, Jr. He was one of the first black men to operate a bus or trolley for the PTC (Philadelphia Transportation Company) and his honor was beyond reproach." (Umar Raheem) ABOUT THE MUSICIANS UMAR A. RAHEEM - Saxophonist and Composer. A native Philadelphian, Umar began studying the saxophone in High School and later began forming his musical style while performing with bands in the US Air Force. He attributes his transcending and unique approach to "SAXOPHONICS" and improvisation to the influences of the great Philadelphia bassist Jymie Merritt, and saxophonists Gene Ammons, Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane. He has performed, toured, and/ or recorded with Lex Humphries, Reverie, Hank Mobley, Sunny Murray, Jymie Merritt, Monnette Sudler, Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble and many others. A prolific composer and arranger, Umar strives to keep his music inspirational, innovative and in the best classical jazz tradition. Playing guitar is MONNETTE SUDLER who is one of the premiere jazz guitarists on the east coast. She adds a strong presence and interprets each composition thoughtfully. Playing acoustical bass is WARREN OREE of the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble. Warren brings creative energy to the session. His unique voice helps give the tunes shape. Playing drums is LUCKY THOMPSON whose percussive artistry is well known. He gives the music a joyful 'snap, crackle and pop'. Playing keyboard is JEFF KNOETTNER (tracks 1,2,3,5 & 7) who expresses the music with dynamic inflection and warmth. Also playing keyboard is the legendary ALFIE POLLITT (tracks 6, 8 & 9). Alfie graces the listeners with beautifully sweet and soulful creations. A special thanks to TONY SMITH, trumpet; TYRONE HILL, trombone, and RAJUL, conga drums. ABOUT THE TUNES The 1st & 9th Tracks "King Martin" are high voltage swingers dedicated to Dr Martin Luther King. Track 2 is the title tune. We called my father Bigboy or Lawman because he was very strict. The title track is a very smooth, sweet melody in 3/4 time. Track 7 "Nu Ramu Suru" is a SunRa-ish type tune with a strange and haunting melody. "Eh Leigh," on tracks 3 & 8, is a funky minor blues with a soft rock groove. Track 5, "The Queen's Gambit," is an uptempo piece written for the 'Put the Blame on Mame' Queen Mae West. "Blue Bishop" on track 6 is a happy blues where everyone has fun. Each track has its own flavor. CHECK US OUT AND TAKE US HOME.