“An original composition dedicated to the late pianist, composer, and bandleader Horace Silver, ‘Pearls of the Tartar’ makes Lake’s love of hard bop plain…Feifke’s introduction sets a mysterious tone, before the full band clears the air with a quirky, grooving affirmation of mambo swing.”
- JazzTimes

"...Expanding on traditional post-bop elements

“An original composition dedicated to the late pianist, composer, and bandleader Horace Silver, ‘Pearls of the Tartar’ makes Lake’s love of hard bop plain…Feifke’s introduction sets a mysterious tone, before the full band clears the air with a quirky, grooving affirmation of mambo swing.”
- JazzTimes

"...Expanding on traditional post-bop elements within a modern acoustic context."
- Jazziz Magazine

"Compelling is the first word that comes to mind in describing John Lake's debut record as a leader. Eight Lake originals, adjoined by three reimagined tunes from the past, comprise Seven Angels. A seasoned studio musician and sideman, Lake knew his time had come. He is joined by five stellar musicians who collectively build a liquid sextet.”
- All About Jazz

“Trumpeter John Lake presents a striking album introducing his multi-talents as composer, arranger and soloist. The outstanding program of unique originals and transformed classics showcases a dynamic band with first-rate soloists sharing a conceptual vision, giving a remarkably seasoned sound to this fresh new project." – Grammy-nominated trombonist, bandleader and arranger John Fedchock