The World According to Herbie

More often than not, these forays flow into each other far more logically than they should, and Hancock's playing is flawless no matter the setting. But when taken as a whole, Gershwin's World is the sort of CD that's easier to admire than enjoy. With the exception of "Cotton Tail," an Ellington number that provides a thrilling showcase for Hancock and saxophonist Shorter, the sheer joy of music comes in a distant second to a certain bookishness that's reminiscent of Wynton Marsalis. Hancock's trying for a masterpiece, and the effort shows.

Still, the album is noteworthy on at least one count: It's the most overt indication yet that Hancock actually cares about someday standing on the jazz pantheon beside the music's giants. If Gershwin's World doesn't put him there, maybe he should consider shooting some smack.