This album is the fifth volume of Wynton Marsalis's Standard Time series. It was recorded in 1997 at Sear Sound, New York, and released in 1998 by Columbia Records. The record focuses on ballads and blues, showcasing the trumpeter's maturity.
Production was handled by Marsalis himself along with Steven Epstein. The quartet includes Eric Reed on piano, Ben Wolfe on bass, and Herlin Riley on drums. The instrumentation is intimate, highlighting the interaction among the musicians.
The album received positive reviews for its nocturnal atmosphere and blues focus. Tracks like 'The Midnight Blues' and 'What Is This Thing Called Love?' reflect the emotional depth of the repertoire. It is considered a milestone in Marsalis's discography.