Tom Ball Quartet

When kids choose what instrument they'd like to play, few of them pick the euphonium, which looks like an undersized tuba and is generally relegated to a supporting role in the rare jazz ensembles that include it. Ball attempts to prove that such pigeonholing is unjustified by repeatedly putting the euphonium in the spotlight, and this modest recording proves his point.

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Tonally, the euphonium is similar to a trombone, which Ball handles in several Denver-area groups. No wonder his playing on the likes of "Peter Rabbit" feels so warm and familiar. The performances -- by Ball, pianist Vlad Girschevich, bassist Eric Thorin and drummer Ben Makinen -- aren't particularly adventurous; they generally settle for post-bop safety. Nevertheless, offerings such as "Bluz 4 T Man," boosted by a trickier-than-usual arrangement, exude an effortless charm.

Elementary schoolers may not clamor for euphoniums because of Ball's undertaking. Still, Fishleather Jacket wears well.