When Monty says Goin' Yard in this album's title, he means he's returning to his Jamaican birthplace. Actually, this live set isn't as single-mindedly concerned with reggae pumping as the pianist's last two studio albums. Recorded at Manchester Craftsmen's Guild (not in England but rather Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), his six-piece, all-Jamaican crew organically blend recent homeland concerns with the wider jazz sound that's dominated most of Monty's career. The leader's acoustic piano is framed by an electrically charged line-up of two guitars, bass and extra keyboards but the axes in particular never succumb to the temptation of excess. "The Serpent" has Alexander working up a strong rapport with the slapping congas of Robert Thomas Jr, heralding the percussionist's pivotal place throughout. Augustus Pablo's "King Tubby Meets The Rockers Uptown" sets up a stepping dub bassline, Monty tripping nimbly, then Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved" is initially lightweight but develops a punch when the chorus vocals enter towards the end. Marley's "Exodus" comes off better, hanging around a propulsive bass, drums tattooing in street band fashion. Alexander's own "Trust" and "Hope" reveal a more lyrical alternative, the latter possessed of a haunting, nostalgic air. --Martin Longley