[4][5] It features Burton with a younger band of guitarist Julian Lage, pianist Makoto Ozone, bassist James Genus and drummer Clarence Penn.

Dave Gelly of The Guardian stated, "A former youthful prodigy himself, Burton has been responsible for discovering and nurturing young talent throughout his long career, and he's done it again.

"[6] Jerry Karp of SF Gate wrote, "Generations was recorded in September of last year with Ozone's regular rhythm section, bassist James Genus and drummer Clarence Penn.

With the success of the "Generations" CD, Burton decided to put together a touring band, a decision facilitated by his retirement from Berklee School of Music in Boston after 33 years as a teacher and administrator, the last eight as executive vice president.

The demands of that position had forced Burton to limit his live appearances primarily to duet performances with Ozone and another longtime collaborator, pianist Chick Corea.