WYNTON KELLY — Piano (1958-1998) RM | Serie XRCD² | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In January 1958, producer Orrin Keepnews brought pianist Wynton Kelly and guitarist Kenny Burrell into the studio. Although he had for years been a highly regarded sideman with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Lester Young and Dinah Washington, Kelly had only cut one date as a leader prior to this -- and that had been seven years earlier. Whisper Not showcases Kelly and Burrell in a trio setting with bassist Paul Chambers, and for one side adds drummer Philly Joe Jones. The tunes include Harold Arlen's "Ill Wind," Billie Holiday's "Don't Explain," and the title track, penned for the Gillespie band by Benny Golson. Unfortunately, Kelly is not given an opportunity to shine in the conventional piano trio setting -- with only bass and drums -- a format in which he excelled. His distinctive drive and buoyant swing feel is in evidence, however, and despite a less than perfect audio mix (a bit dry), Whisper Not is recommended as an important recording in the oeuvre of Wynton Kelly. Lee Bloom 

Tracklist :

1  Whisper Not 7:12 

Benny Golson 

2  Action 7:12 

Wynton Kelly 

3  Dark Eyes 5:59 

Traditional 

4  Strong Man 5:17 

Oscar Brown, Jr. 

5  Ill Wind 4:25 

Harold Arlen / Ted Koehler 

6  Don't Explain 5:36 

Billie Holiday / Arthur Herzog, Jr. 

7  You Can't Get Away 6:24 

Wynton Kelly 

8  Dark Eyes 5:19 

Traditional 

Credits :

Bass – Paul Chambers 

Drums – Philly Joe Jones 

Guitar – Kenny Burrell (tracks: 1 to 3, 8) 

Piano – Wynton Kelly