by Jonathan WidranThe last 20 years of this legendary saxman's four-decade solo career have mostly featured fun and funky, energetic pop or smooth jazz dates, with one exception, 1992's straight-ahead date Born Again. Not surprisingly, despite all the solid work he's put forth during that time, that date is the only one that's been truly respected by traditional jazz critics. But now, making his MCG debut with Bebop United, Tom Scott makes a special return to his bebop roots on a live recording -- featuring cohorts like Randy Brecker, Gil Goldstein, and Phil Woods -- performed at the Manchester Craftsman's Guild in Pittsburgh in May 2002. The date is essentially Born Again fashioned for a live setting, but with the addition of Woods upon a recommendation from the Guild. Scott wrote special arrangements for their two altos on "Silhouettes," Chick Corea's "Tones for Jones Bones," and "Close View." For Scott, alternately blowing heavy and tappin...