A Handful Of Stars is a most apt description for Los Angeles' first call baritone saxophonist Adam Schroeder's debut release as a leader. He has assembled a hard-swinging and sublimely sensitive quartet with veterans John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton and rising star guitarist, Graham Dechter. The eleven tunes include works by Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Neal Hefti, Quincy Jones and other composers as well as two of Schroeder's elegant originals. While Schroeder is most at home leading his own quartet, he has also been featured with Anthony Wilson's Nonet, Clayton/Hamiton Jazz Orchestra, Benny Wallace, Ray Charles and Clark Terry. •Two ads planned for Downbeat.