At 19 Jackie McLean recorded with Miles Davis, later performing with Charles Mingus and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. As frontman of his own groups, McLean is one of the pioneers of jazz, but his greatest contribution may be his role as educator and activist for all the arts.

McLean brings a breath of fresh air to classic standards in his newest release Nature Boy. The album’s line-up includes pianist Cedar Walton, bassist David Williams and drummer Billy Higgins. McLean’s arrangement of “Nature Boy,” the album’s title cut, takes you into a light and airy realm powered by McLean’s alto and the drums of Billy Higgins. The continuous bass of David Williams is the backbone of this piece.

Other highlights include “You Don’t Know What Love is,” which is an easy, laid back swing. Cedar Walton’s solo on “Star Eyes” also deserves a notable mention. Ballad lovers will delight in McLean’s rendition of “I Fall in Love Too Easily.”