An often dashing, animated tenor saxophonist, George Young doesn't consistently display that fire. At times, his polished, smooth tone can sound detached, and he's sometimes been overshadowed on recording sessions by such musicians as Ron Carter, Jack DeJohnette, Dave Holland, and Toots Thielemans. But Young's alto and tenor style has been flexible enough for him to make creditable contributions to swing, fusion, and bebop sessions since the '60s. He's recorded in the big bands of Louis Bellson and Benny Goodman, and the combos of Steve Gadd, Jay Leonhart, and John Tropea. Young has also recorded as a leader for several labels, including Chiaroscuro and Paddle Wheel.