I don't think I've heard much of Curson that really is a 'blowing vehicle,' which puts him in a different league than some of his contemporaries (i.e., free-leaning hardbop trumpeters). The opener, "Kassim," slayed me on first hearing, that tidal wave of rhythm from Berk, with extraordinary weight placed on the 'one,' just surges in ways one rarely hears - plus, that slinky tango-like theme dancing atop makes it unforgettable. Following it, then, is a down-and-dirty blues, "East 6th Street," which makes for a perfect about-face.
It's funny, "Tears For Dolphy" isn't really a lament (as Jackie Mc's "Poor Eric"), but a joyous celebration of improvisational art at a fulcrum of one of the music's most vibrant decades.