CURTIS FULLER — I Will Tell Her (2010) 2CD | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Through his long and storied career as one of the premier jazz trombonists, Curtis Fuller has been with all-star bands of different sizes and stripes. This sextet of friends from Denver, CO, gives Fuller plenty of firepower to swing mightily on some of his most famous compositions, documented on a double-CD set, one done in the studio, the other in live concert performance. With saxophonist Keith Oxman and trumpeter Al Hood (both well represented with fine recordings on their own as leaders), Fuller plays in the spirit of his former boss Art Blakey with a group sound similar to the Jazz Messengers. His tone is pretty strong, and does not have to push so hard alongside Oxman and Hood on such classic hard bop numbers as "Time Off," Kenny Dorham's "Minor's Holiday," "The Clan," and the all-time favorite "Alamode." Pianist Chip Stephens (ex-Ernie Krivda) plays in unison for another piece, the modal "Maze," which has stood the test of time. The live side showcases two drawn-out versions of studio sessions, additional material, and a warm-up version of "Tenor Madness" where the horns test each other's prowess. Overall, this is one of the better recordings in the latter-period days of Fuller, chock-full of spirit, and comes easily recommended. Michael G. Nastos
Tracklist & Credits :

CURTIS FULLER — Down Home (2012) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In his mid-seventies at the time of this 2011 session, master trombonist Curtis Fuller is very much at the top of his game. Working with a familiar group, all of whose members appeared on his Capri CD I Will Tell Her (tenor saxophonist Keith Oxman, trumpeter Al Hood, pianist Chip Stephens, bassist Ken Walker, and drummer Todd Reid), Fuller not only brought arrangements but encouraged the Denver-based musicians to contribute theirs as well. The feeling one gets is of a touring band, not one put together for a recording. Fuller's charts are lively with rich ensembles, potent solos all around, and a hip energy that makes one want to hear them again. Among the highlights of Fuller's compositions are the spirited soul-jazz vehicle "Down Home," the hip "Nu Groove," and the easygoing "Sweetness," featuring Hood's sublime muted trumpet. Stephens contributed the swaggering "C Hip's Blues," something that would have fit perfectly into 1960s hard bop repertoire had it been available. Oxman penned the upbeat "Jonli Bercosta," which has rich ensembles and fine solos. Recommended. Ken Dryden  Tracklist & Credits