In The Key Of The Universe is an outstanding date bringing together many sounds, styles and inspirations all under the umbrella of DeFrancesco’s melodic and soulful jazz style. Sanders and Roberts are wonderful together. Roberts especially has been making a joyful noise in recent years. (read our review of Roberts latest album HERE). Highlights for us are: “Inner Being,” “Vibrations in Blue,” and “Awake and Blessed.” The latter finds DeFrancesco playing organ and keyboard in a vibrant and innovative manner over the up-tempo swing feel. Roberts’ interaction with Hart’s rhythms and DeFrancesco’s harmony is a fun listen and their musical conversation is of note. Of course, “The Creator Has a Master Plan” is at the core a historical and emotional statement by DeFrancesco. Sanders released the original in 1969 on his album, Karma (impulse! Records). Here Roberts switches to acoustic bass and Sanders takes us on a journey of spatial jazz that is emotive and impressive. Together this ensemble creates a meaningful and lasting piece in the universe of jazz. That’s the short of it!