"Fantasy in D" is a Cedar Walton composition recorded for Freddie Hubbard's 1971 CTI album First Light, arranged by Don Sebesky. The track features Hubbard on flugelhorn rather than trumpet, the warmer, darker timbre of the instrument lending a distinctly mellow quality to his three choruses of improvisation over a 12-bar blues form with a Latin feel. Hubbard's flugelhorn work is fluid and lyrical, the instrument's rounder sound encouraging a more relaxed, melodic approach to his soloing. Flutist Hubert Laws follows with two choruses that shift to a swing feel, his classical training evident in his impeccable tone production and effortless technique, while his jazz conception brings rhythmic vitality and harmonic adventure to the performance. Cedar Walton's blues-based composition provides a sturdy framework that both soloists exploit with creativity and imagination. The track highlights the versatility of the First Light ensemble, moving easily between Latin and swing grooves while maintaining a cohesive musical identity. Ron Carter and Jack DeJohnette adapt fluidly to the shifting rhythmic contexts, their interplay providing essential momentum throughout.
