JO STAFFORD — Jo + Jazz (1960-1987) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The closest Stafford ever came to being a jazz singer. This early '60s release had instrumental touches and a jazz tone, and Stafford sang with more energy and less gimmickry. Ron Wynn
Tracklist :
1     Just Squeeze Me (But Don't Tease Me) 2:57
Duke Ellington / Lee Gaines
2     For You 2:55
Joe Burke / Al Dubin
3     Midnight Sun 4:37
Sonny Burke / Lionel Hampton / Johnny Mercer
4     You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To 3:23
Cole Porter
5     The Folks Who Live on the Hill 3:32
Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern
6     I Didn't Know About You 3:30
Duke Ellington / Bob Russell
7     (What Can I Say) After I Say I'm Sorry? 3:08
Walter Donaldson / Abe Lyman
8     Dream of You 2:47
Jimmie Lunceford / Michael Morales
9     Imagination 3:49
Johnny Burke / James Van Heusen
10     S'posin' 2:48
Paul Denniker / Andy Razaf
11     Day Dream 4:27
Duke Ellington / John Latouche / Billy Strayhorn
12     I've Got the World on a String 3:38
Harold Arlen / Ted Koehler
Credits :
Saxophone – Johnny Hodges, Ben Webster
Arranged By – Johnny Mandel
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Jimmy Rowles, Russ Freeman
Trumpet – Conte Candoli, Don Fagerquist, Ray Nance
Vocals – Jo Stafford 

CHET BAKER & BUD SHANK — Theme Music from "The James Dean Story" (1958-2000) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

West coast cool purveyors Chet Baker (trumpet) and Bud Shank team up to provide the incidental soundtrack to The James Dean Story (1958). Granted, the biopic was presumably made to cash in on the actor's untimely demise, but movie buffs also recognize it as one of director Robert Altman's earliest features. The score was written by Leith Stevens, who had previously worked on Private Hell 36 (1954), The Wild One (1954), and the Oscar-winning sci-fi classic Destination Moon (1950). Those credentials may have gotten Stevens the gig, but his contributions remain somewhat of a double-edged sword. Neither Baker, Shank, nor any of the other post-bop luminaries in the makeshift ensemble are able to transcend or expound upon the arguably limiting melodies, such as the hopelessly dated and unintentionally kitschy "Hollywood." That shouldn't suggest that this title is a complete washout, thanks in part to another Tinsel Town-related maestro, Johnny Mandel, whose moody, exploratory "The Search" and understated noir of "Success and Then What?" stand as exemplary. One of Stevens' more affective selections is the ballad "Let Me Be Loved." Perhaps by design, it is noticeably reminiscent of Baker's unofficial theme song, "My Funny Valentine," and is easily the most poignant performance on the platter. Otherwise, the vast majority of the material is little more than ersatz-cool filler, bearing little distinction. From a historical perspective, this seems almost criminal, especially in light of the inordinate talent corralled for the project. Potential consumers and Baker enthusiasts should note that the 1958 Pacific Jazz long player did not include the rare vocal version of "Let Me Be Loved." Lindsay Planer 
Tracklist : 
1. Jimmy's Theme 2:49
 Leith Stevens 
2. The Search 4:44
 Leith Stevens  
3. Lost Love 3:35
 Leith Stevens 
4. People 3:32
 Bob Merrill / Leith Stevens / Jule Styne 
5. The Movie Star 3:32
 Leith Stevens 
6. Fairmont, Indiana 4:30
 Leith Stevens 
7. Rebel At Work 3:41
 Leith Stevens 
8. Success And Then What? 3:53
 Leith Stevens 
9. Let Me Be Loved 4:08
Written-By – Livingston-Evans
10. Hollywood 5:02
 Leith Stevens 
11. Let Me Be Loved (Vocal Version) 2:13
Vocals – Chet Baker
Written-By – J. Livingston / R. Evans
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Charlie Mariano (tracks: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 to 11), Herbie Steward
Alto Saxophone, Flute – Bud Shank (tracks: 1 to 6, 8 to 11)
Baritone Saxophone – Pepper Adams (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 11)
Bass – Monte Budwig
Bongos – Mike Pacheco (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 11)
Drums – Mel Lewis
Flute – Don Fagerquist (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 11)
Orchestrated By, Arranged By, Conductor – Bill Holman (tracks: 3 to 6, 9, 11), Johnny Mandel (tracks: 1, 2, 8)
Piano – Claude Williamson
Tenor Saxophone – Bill Holman (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 11), Richie Kamuca (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 11)
Trombone – Milt Bernhart (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 11)
Trumpet – Chet Baker, Ray Linn (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8 to 1

PAUL DESMOND · GERRY MULLIGAN — Two Of A Mind (1962) RM | Two Version | Original Columbia Jazz Classics Series | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

Altoist Paul Desmond and baritonist Gerry Mulligan always made for a perfect team during their infrequent collaborations. Both of the saxophonists had immediately distinctive light tones, strong wits, and the ability to improvise melodically. Here the two masterful reed players are featured in pianoless quartets that also include Wendell Marshall, Joe Benjamin or John Beal on bass, and Connie Kay or Mel Lewis on drums. The songs all utilize common chord changes, including the two "originals" ("Two of a Mind" and "Blight of the Fumble Bee"), and the interplay between Desmond and Mulligan is consistently delightful. Highly recommended. [Some reissues add five bonus tracks: two alternate takes of album tracks, a laid-back take of "Easy Living" that shows off Mulligan's way with a ballad, and two takes of "Untitled Blues Waltz" that feature Jim Hall on guitar and a very squeaky drum pedal.] Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    All The Things You Are 5:48
Written-By – Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II
2    Stardust 8:20
Written-By – Hoagy Carmichael, Mitchell Parish
3    Two Of A Mind 5:45
Written-By – Paul Desmond
4    Blight Of The Fumble Bee 6:33
Written-By – Gerry Mulligan
5    The Way You Look Tonight 7:19
Written-By – Dorothy Fields, Jerome Kern
6    Out Of Nowhere 6:42
Written-By – Edward Heyman, Johnny Green
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Paul Desmond
Baritone Saxophone – Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Joe Benjamin (tracks: 3, 5, 6), John Beal (tracks: 4), Wendell Marshall (tracks: 1, 2)
Drums – Connie Kay (tracks: 1, 2, 4), Mel Lewis (tracks: 3, 5, 6)

HERBIE MANN · BUDDY COLLETTE — Flute Fraternity (1957-1997) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In the 1950s, Herbie Mann frequently shared the spotlight on record dates with other flutists. This V.S.O.P. LP, a reissue of a set originally for Mode and also out for awhile on Premier, matches Mann (who here also plays piccolo, clarinet and tenor) with Buddy Collette (switching between flute, clarinet, tenor and alto) in a quintet with pianist Jimmy Rowles, bassist Buddy Clark and drummer Mel Lewis. The results are generally pleasing, if somewhat lightweight, with such obscure tunes as "Here's Buddy," Rowles' "Pop Melody," "Here's Pete" and Mann's "Theme from 'Theme From'" alternating with three standards and Chico Hamilton's "Morning After." The most interesting aspect to this lightly swinging music is the constant switching around of the lead voices on their various horns. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1.    Herbie's Buddy    4:08
 Herbie Mann 
2.    Perdido    4:13
 Ervin Drake / Hans Lengsfelder / Juan Tizol 
3.    Baubles, Bangles And Beads 4:20
 George Forrest / Robert Wright 
4.    Give A Little Whistle    3:35
 Leigh Harline / Ned Washington 
5.    Here's Pete 2:40
 Pete Rugolo 
6.    Theme From "Theme From"    6:44
 Herbie Mann 
7.    Nancy With The Laughing Face    3:57
 James Van Heusen / Phil Silvers 
8.    Morning After    2:38
 Herbie Mann 
Credits :
Bass – Buddy Clark
Drums – Mel Lewis
Flute, Alto Flute, Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Herbie Mann
Flute, Alto Flute, Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone – Buddy Collette
Piano, Celesta – Jimmy Rowles

MORGANA KING — A Taste Of Honey (1964-1993) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1    A Taste Of Honey 5:13
Written-By – B Scott, R Marlowe
2    Fascinating Rhytm 2:33
Written-By – G & I Gershwin
3    Prelude To A Kiss 3:39
Written-By – D Ellington, I Gordon, I Mills
4    Easy Living 3:36
Written-By – L Robin, R Rainger
5    All Blues 3:39
Written-By – M Davis, O Brown
6    Bluesette 2:42
Written-By – N Gimbel, J Thielemans
7    Easy To Love 2:40
Written-By – C Porter
8    The Night Has A Thousand Eyes 3:02
Written-By – B Bernier, J Brianin
9    The Lady Is A Tramp 2:17
Written-By – R Rodgers/L Hart
10    Try to Remember 2:36
Written-By – H Schmidt, T Jones
11    Meditation 3:48
Written-By – Jobim, Mendonca, Gimbel
12    I'll Follow You 4:38
Written-By – F Ahlert, R Turk
13    Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child     3:21
Credits :
Arranged and conducted by - Torrie Zito
ft. Clark Terry, Joe Wilder, Dave McKenna, Barry Galbraith, Mel Lewis, Mundell Lowe, Phil Woods, Hank Jones, Don Butterfield ...
Vocals - Morgana King

HELEN HUMES — 'Tain't Nobody's Biz-ness If I Do (1959-1990) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Helen Humes had not recorded as a leader in seven years when she made the first of three albums for Contemporary, all of which have been reissued on CD via the OJC imprint. Humes, 45 at the time, was at the peak of her powers, although she never really made a bad record. Accompanied by Benny Carter (on trumpet), trombonist Frank Rosolino, tenor saxophonist Teddy Edwards, pianist Andrew Previn, bassist Leroy Vinnegar, and either Shelly Manne or Mel Lewis on drums, the singer is typically enthusiastic, exuberant, and highly appealing on such numbers as "You Can Depend on Me," "When I Grow Too Old to Dream," and "''Tain't Nobody's Bizness If I Do." She even sings credible versions of "Bill Bailey" and "When the Saints Go Marching In" on this easily recommended CD. Scott Yanow
Tracklist  :
1 You Can Depend on Me 3:22
Charles Carpenter / Louis Dunlap / Earl Hines
2 Trouble in Mind 2:37 
Richard M. Jones
3 Among My Souvenirs 3:37 
Edgar Leslie / Horatio Nicholls
4 Ain't Misbehavin' 4:03
Harry Brooks / Andy Razaf / Fats Waller
5 Stardust 4:45
Hoagy Carmichael / Mitchell Parish
6 Bill Bailey 2:21
Hughie Cannon
7 When I Grow Too Old to Dream 3:34
Oscar Hammerstein II / Sigmund Romberg
8 A Good Man Is Hard to Find 3:06
Eddie Green
9 Bill 2:37
Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern / P.G. Wodehouse
10 'Tain't Nobody's Bizness If I Do 2:24
Percy Grainger / Porter Grainger / Robert Prince / Everett Robbins / Clarence Williams
11 I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good) 3:26
Duke Ellington / Paul Francis Webster
12 When the Saints Go Marching In 4:03
James Black / Traditional
Credits :
Bass – Leroy Vinnegar
Drums – Mel Lewis (# 3, 8, 10, 11), Shelly Manne (# 1, 2, 4 ,7, 9)
Leader, Trumpet – Benny Carter
Piano – André Previn
Tenor Saxophone – Teddy Edwards
Trombone – Frank Rosolino
Vocals – Helen Humes

JON FADDIS — Legacy (1986) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

After too long a period in the studios, talented trumpeter Jon Faddis returned to jazz with this brilliant effort. Best known for his ability to closely emulate his idol, Dizzy Gillespie (far from an easy feat), Faddis pays tribute to Gillespie with "Night in Tunisia" and "Things to Come." However, he also does a close imitation of Roy Eldridge on "Little Jazz," pays homage to Louis Armstrong on "West End Blues," shows sensitivity on Thad Jones' "A Child Is Born," and performs three other numbers. With the assistance of tenor saxophonist Harold Land, pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Ray Brown, and drummer Mel Lewis, Jon Faddis is in superb form throughout this outstanding release, his definitive recording. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    West End Blues 5:35
Written-By – Clarence Williams, Joe "King" Oliver
2    Little Jazz 5:37
Written-By – Roy Eldridge
3    Night In Tunisia 6:02
Written-By – Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Paparelli, Jon Hendricks
4    Instigator 4:44
Written-By – Jon Faddis
5    Things To Come 3:31
Written-By – Dizzy Gillespie, Gil Fuller
6    A Child Is Born 7:00
Written-By – Thad Jones
7    Li'l Darlin' 4:09
Written-By – Neal Hefti
8    Whisper Not 5:31
Written-By – Benny Golson, Leonard Feather
Credits
Bass – Ray Brown
Drums – Mel Lewis
Flugelhorn, Trumpet – Jon Faddis
Piano – Kenny Barron
Tenor Saxophone – Harold Land

BILL EVANS – Symbiosis (1974-1994) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Legendary jazz pianist Bill Evans is most often thought of as a "trio" player, as most of his albums have been piano/bass/drums, with the occasional solo or duo album. But he did record a select few albums with orchestras, and that's what makes SYMBIOSIS a special and unique entry in Evans' hugh catalog. Recorded in 1974, it was released in 1994 on CD for the first time. Further, this albums contains no standards or Evans originals--the title piece is a multi-part suite composed, arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman (who also collaborated with Stan Getz and Frank Sinatra, among many others).

The album runs the stylistic gamut: there are moments of Philip Glass-like minimalism (!), samba-flavored big-band passages, echoes of the early 20th century Russian composers, Third Stream jazz, lush yet slightly ominous string arrangements and '70s film music. Throughout, Evans, alternating between acoustic and electric pianos, shimmers and entrances with his inventively lyrical solos. Not your "typical" Bill Evans album--but that's what makes SYMBIOSIS such a fine, gently challenging listen. AllMusic
Tracklist  :
1st Movement (Moderato, Various Tempi)
1. (a) (7:55)
2. (b) (5:18)
3. (c) (11:55)
2nd Movement (Largo, Andante, Maestoso, Largo)
4. (a) (9:14)
5. (b) (6:47)

The Bill Evans Trio
Bill Evans - Steinway grand piano, Fender Rhodes electric piano
Eddie Gomez - Bass
Marty Morell - Drums

Orchestra conducted by Claus Ogerman
Phil Woods, Jerry Dodgion, Walt Levinsky, Harvey Estrin - Alto Saxophone
Bill Slapin, Don Hammond, Hubert Laws - Flute
George Marge, Phil Bodner - Oboe
Danny Bank, Ron Janelly - Clarinet, Bass Clarinet
Wally Kane - Bassoon
Don MacCourt - Contra Bassoon
Brooks Tillotson, James Buffington, Earl Chapin, Ray Alonge, Al Richmond, Pete Gordon - French Horn
Marvin Stamm, John Frosk, Bernie Glow, Marky Markowitz, Victor Paz, Mel Davis - Trumpet
Urbie Green - Tenor Trombone
Paul Faulise, Tommy Mitchell - Bass Trombone
Don Butterfield - Tuba
George Devens, Dave Carey, Doug Allen - Percussion
Ralph McDonald - Congas
David Nadien - Concertmaster

BUD SHANK | BILL PERKINS — Bud Shank and Bill Perkins (1998) MONO | Serie West Coast Classics | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Two of the stars of cool jazz, Bud Shank and Bill Perkins, are featured to various degrees throughout this session. Shank in the 1950s was practically the epitome of West Coast jazz. His cool tones on alto and his fluid flute were utilized on many dates; the main set here also finds him switching in spots to tenor and baritone. Perkins, always a versatile reed soloist, is best known for his tenor playing but during that date he also plays alto, and (on two versions of "Fluted Columns") there are some rare examples of his flute. Shank and Perkins team up quite effectively with pianist Hampton Hawes, bassist Red Mitchell, and drummer Mel Lewis for the May 2, 1955 session, which includes a trio feature for Hawes ("I Hear Music"). Four numbers from February 19, 1956 (with Shank on flute and alto, pianist Russ Freeman, bassist Carson Smith, drummer Shelly Manne, and, on "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?," Perkins on tenor) are actually from a session led by Freeman but never completed, and were only put out previously on samplers. "Angel Eyes" (by a quartet with Perkins and pianist Jimmy Rowles) is a leftover track from a later date, as is "Sonny Speaks," which showcases Rowles in a trio without Perkins. This set concludes with the one surviving number ("Ain't Got a Dime to My Name") surviving from a truncated Perkins quartet set from 1958. Taken as a whole, there are many rewarding solos to be heard by Shank, Perkins, and the piano players on these formerly rare selections, even if the collection falls short of being classic. Scott Yanow   Tracklist & Credits

RAY BROWN — Bass Hit! (1958-1998) RM | Serie Verve Elite Edition | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Ray Brown's earliest date as a leader features him prominently in the solo spotlight with arrangements by Marty Paich. They collaborated on a swinging original blues, "Blues for Sylvia," and the snappy "Blues for Lorraine." The rest of the release concentrates on familiar standards, with the addition to the reissue of several complete and incomplete takes of "After You've Gone," which didn't appear on the original release. The supporting cast includes the cream of the crop of musicians living on the West Coast at the time: Jimmy Rowles, Harry "Sweets" Edison, and Jimmy Giuffre among them. Out-of-print for a long time, this record was reissued in 1999, though as a limited-edition title in the Verve Elite series, so it will not remain available for long. Ken Dryden
Tracklist & Credits :

ART PEPPER — Art Pepper + Eleven (1959-1986) APE (image+.cue), lossless

This is a true classic. Altoist Art Pepper is joined by an 11-piece band playing Marty Paich arrangements of a dozen jazz standards from the bop and cool jazz era. Trumpeter Jack Sheldon has a few solos, but the focus is very much on the altoist who is in peak form for this period. Throughout, Pepper sounds quite inspired by Paich's charts which feature the band as an active part of the music rather than just in the background. Highlights of this highly enjoyable set include "Move," "Four Brothers," "Shaw Nuff," "Anthropology," and "Donna Lee," but there is not a single throwaway track to be heard. Essential music for all serious jazz collections. [Some reissues add two additional versions of "Walkin'" and one of "Donna Lee" to the original program.] Scott Yanow    Tracklist & Credits :

PEPPER ADAMS — Critics' Choice (1958-2005) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Pepper Adams was one of the greatest jazz baritone saxophonists of all time. During a time when Gerry Mulligan's cool-toned baritone was very influential, Adams rose to prominence with a harder and bigger sound, much more hard bop than cool. This relatively obscure release, originally an LP for the World Pacific label, finds the baritonist in Los Angeles matching his hard-driving style with several players identified with West Coast cool jazz. Trumpeter Lee Katzman, who is on every selection but "Blackout Blues" and "Four Funky People," has a tone closer to Chet Baker than to Donald Byrd, but fits in well with Adams. The rhythm section is mostly laid-back and quiet but swinging. A joy of this CD reissue is the repertoire, which contains catchy originals by Adams, Barry Harris (the memorable "High Step"), Tommy Flanagan, and Thad Jones in addition to a lone standard in "Alone Together." Adams was one of the most consistent of all jazzmen; he never seemed to make an unworthy record, so he is in typically fine form throughout this freewheeling hard bop set. "Four Funky People," not originally on the LP but from the same sessions, is included as a bonus cut. Scott Yanow  
Tracklist :
1  Minor Mishap  6:28
Tommy Flanagan
2  Blackout Blues 4:58
Pepper Adams
3  High Step 8:44
Barry Harris
4  Zec  6:35
Thad Jones
5  Alone Together 5:51
Schwartz-Dietz
6  50-21 8:12
Thad Jones
– BONUS TRACKS –
7  Four Funky People 4:56
Pepper Adams
Credits :
    Baritone Saxophone – Pepper Adams
    Bass – Doug Watkins
    Drums – Mel Lewis
    Piano – Jimmy Rowles
   Trumpet – Lee Katzman (tracks: 1, 3 To 6)

JOHNNY HODGES | BEN WEBSTER - The Complete 1960 Sextet Jazz Cellar Session (2011) FLAC (tracks), lossless

This release contains th superb November 1960 session recorded by the Ben Webster-Johnny Hodges sextet in studio conditions at the Jazz Cellar, in San Francisco (without an audience). It is presented here in its complete form on a single CD for the first time ever. The two great saxophonists were the only horn players heard at the session. They were backed by a rhythm section of piano, guitar, bass and drums. These recordings are exceptional in that no other date exists in their collaborative discography featuring them as the only horns. A complete (and very rare) octet session featuring Webster and Hodges has been added as a bonus. Notas CD
Tracklist :
1    Ben's Web 5'08
2    SIde Door (Don't Kid Yourself) 5'49
3    Blues'll Blow Your Fuse 4'21
4    I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me 2'46
5    Dual Highway 3'14
6    Big Ears 4'50
7    Shorty Gull 3'45
8    Ifida 4'36
9    Big Smack 4'51
10    I'd Be There 5'16
11    Just Another Day 5'48
12    Lollalagin Now 2'51
- BONUS TRACKS -
13    Exactly Like You 2'52
14    I'm Beginning To See The Light 4'00
15    Val's Lament 4'10
16    Tipsy Joe 5'29
17    Waiting On The Champagne 3'24
Credits 1-12 :
Ben Webster (Tenor Sax)
Johnny Hodges (Alto Sax)
Lou Levy (Piano)
Herb Ellis (Guitar)
Wilfred Middlebrooks (Bass)
Gus Johnson (Drums)
Credits 13-17 :
Ben Webster (Tenor Sax)
Johnny Hodges (Alto Sax)
Russ Freeman (Piano)
Lawrence Brown (Trombone)
Joe Mondragon (Bass)
Mel Lewis (Drums)
Emil Richards (Vibes)
Jimmy Hamilton (Arranged)
Los Angeles, January 31, 1961.

ZOOT SIMS — Choice (1961-2002) RM | Super Bit Jazz Classics | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Tracklist :
1    I'll Remember April 4:15
Bass – Red Mitchell
Drums – Larry Bunker
Leader [Leadership] – Gerry Mulligan
Piano – Bobby Brookmeyer
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Written-By – Raye, DePaul, Johnston
2    Flamingo 2:15
Baritone Saxophone, Leader [Leadership] – Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Red Mitchell
Drums – Larry Bunker
Piano – Bobby Brookmeyer
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Trumpet – Jon Eardley
Written-By – Anderson, Grouya
3    There Will Never Be Another You 5:00
Baritone Saxophone, Leader [Leadership] – Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Red Mitchell
Drums – Larry Bunker
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Valve Trombone – Bobby Brookmeyer
Written-By – Warren, Gordon
4    Red Door 7:00
Bass – Red Mitchell
Drums – Larry Bunker
Leader [Leadership] – Gerry Mulligan
Piano – Bobby Brookmeyer
Written-By, Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
5    You're Driving Me Crazy 4:47
Bass – Monte Budwig
Drums – Mel Lewis
Guitar – Billy Bean
Piano – Russ Freeman
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Written-By – Walter Donaldson
6    Brushes 6:30
Bass – Monte Budwig
Guitar – Jim Hall
Piano – Russ Freeman
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Written-By – Freeman
Written-By, Drums – Lewis
7    Choice Blues 4:30
Bass – Monte Budwig
Drums – Mel Lewis
Guitar – Jim Hall
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Written-By, Piano – Russ Freeman

AL COHN - Jazz Mission to Moscow (1962-2010) RM | Jazz名盤 999 Best & More | FLAC (tracks), lossless

In 1962 Benny Goodman had a historic visit to the Soviet Union, touring with a big band full of young all-stars. After the orchestra returned to the U.S., tenor saxophonist Al Cohn (who had not made the trip but did write some of Goodman's charts) put together an album (also released by Colpix) using many of the sidemen and paying tribute to the event. Strangely enough none of the six numbers are Cohn originals and he does not play on the record although he arranged all of the music. Of the six songs, "Mission to Moscow," "Let's Dance" and "Russian Lullaby" were part of Goodman's repertoire. Altoist Phil Woods effectively doubles on clarinet and other soloists include tenor saxophonist Zoot Sims, trumpeter Marky Markowitz and trombonist Willie Dennis. An interesting set of modern swing but this LP has been unfortunately long out-of-print. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Mission To Moscow 4:20
Written-By – Mel Powell
2    The Sochi Boatman 5:17
Adapted By – A. Gilbert
Arranged By – Al Cohn
3    Midnight In Moscow 5:59
Written-By – Ball, Soloviev-Sedoy, Matusovsky
4    Let's Dance 4:32
Written-By – Baldridge, Stone, Bonime
5    Russian Lullaby 5:39
Written-By – Irving Berlin
6    Red, White And Blue Eyes 4:53
Adapted By – A. Gilbert
Arranged By – Al Cohn
Credits :
Alto Saxophone, Clarinet – Phil Woods
Alto Saxophone, Flute – Jerry Dodgion
Baritone Saxophone – Gene Allen
Bass – Bill Crow
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Eddie Costa
Tenor Saxophone – Zoot Sims
Trombone – Willie Dennis
Trumpet – Jimmy Maxwell, Markie Markowitz

AL COHN & ZOOT SIMS - Body and Soul (1973-1997) WV (image+.cue), lossless

Other than a couple of albums for tiny collector's labels, this Muse album was Al Cohn's first album as a leader since 1962. Cohn had spent much of the interim as a full-time writer for studios and was finally returning to active playing. He renewed his musical partnership with Zoot Sims on this quintet date for Muse, which also includes pianist Jaki Byard, bassist George Duvivier and drummer Mel Lewis. Cohn and Sims still had very complementary sounds and personalities, so their collaboration on Body and Soul [Muse] holds its own against their earlier dates. Zoot switches to soprano on "Jean"; Cohn is in top form on "Body and Soul." and the three-song "Brazilian Medley" works quite well. This is pleasing and frequently lyrical music. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Doodle Oodle 6'54
Billy Byers
2     Emily 7'19
Johnny Mandel / Johnny Mercer    
3     Brazilian Medley: Recado Bossa Nova/The Girl from Ipanema 7'59
Djalma Ferreira / Norman Gimbel / Antônio Carlos Jobim / Vinícius de Moraes
4     Mama Flossie 5'43
Al Cohn / Zoot Sims    
5     Body and Soul 5'38
Frank Eyton / Johnny Green / Edward Heyman / Robert Sour
6     Jean 6'03
Rod McKuen    
7     Blue Hodge 7'03
Gary McFarland
Credits :
Bass – George Duvivier
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Jaki Byard
Tenor Saxophone – Al Cohn
Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Zoot Sims

BENNY CARTER WITH BEN WEBSTER & BARNEY BIGARD - B.B.B. & Co. (1962-1992) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

One of Benny Carter's last jazz recordings before he became totally immersed in writing for the studios, this set matches his alto and trumpet with tenor great Ben Webster, clarinetist Barney Bigard and trumpeter Shorty Sherock on a pair of lengthy blues and Carter's "Lula" and "When Lights Are Low." All of the swing all-stars are in fine form, making one wish that they were not being so neglected by critics and fans alike during this era; Webster soon left the U.S. permanently for Europe. Although not essential, this set is fun. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Opening Blues 10:10
Written-By – Leonard Feather
2    Lula 7:42
Written-By – Benny Carter
3    When Lights Are Low 4:42
Written-By – Benny Carter
4    You Can't Tell The Difference When The Sun Goes Down Blues 12:05
Written-By – Feather
Credits :
Alto Saxophone, Trumpet – Benny Carter
Bass – Leroy Vinnegar
Clarinet – Barney Bigard
Drums – Mel Lewis
Guitar – Dave Barbour
Liner Notes – Leonard Feather
Piano – Jimmy Rowles
Tenor Saxophone – Ben Webster
Trumpet – Shorty Sherock

CLARK TERRY & HIS FRIENDS - What Makes Sammy Swing! (1964) lp | MONO | FLAC (tracks), lossless

This obscure 1963 studio session led by Clark Terry features the music from Ervin Drake's Broadway show What Makes Sammy Run, with arrangements by Pat Williams, but the real attraction to it is the cast of musicians. In addition to the always enjoyable trumpeter, Phil Woods, Urbie Green, Seldon Powell, Dave McKenna, George Duvivier, and Mel Lewis are present. "The Friendliest Thing" is a rare opportunity to hear Woods on flute, joining Terry's muted horn for this easygoing reworking of the chord changes to "Tea for Two." The swinging "Humble" showcases the leader on open horn, while Woods' matchless alto sax is center stage in the bossa nova "Maybe Some Other Time." While the music on this disc may be unfamiliar to the vast majority of jazz fans, the strong melodies and outstanding efforts of the players make this long out of print record, which was last available as a French import LP in the 1970s, worth acquiring. Ken Dryden
Tracklist:
1     A Room Without Windows 2'36
Ervin Drake
2     You're No Good 2'54
Ervin Drake
3     My Home Town 2'34
Ervin Drake
4     A New Pair of Shoes 2'21
Ervin Drake
5     The Friendliest Thing 3'16
Ervin Drake
6     Humble 3'05
Ervin Drake
7     Maybe Some Other Time 3'24
Ervin Drake
8     Something to Live For 4'02
Duke Ellington / Billy Strayhorn
9     Bachelor Gal 2'20
Ervin Drake
10     Some Days Everything Goes Wrong 3'28
Ervin Drake
Credits  
Alto Saxophone [Alto Sax], Clarinet, Flute – Phil Woods
Arranged By – Pat Williams
Bass – George Duvivier
Bass Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone [Tenor Baritone] – Seldon Powell
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Dave McKenna
Trombone – Urbie Green
Trumpet – Clark Terry

GARY McFARLAND & Co. | CLARK TERRY - Tijuana Jazz (1965) lp | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Considering the strong lineup of musicians on this LP (Gary McFarland on marimba, both Clark Terry and Joe Newman on trumpets, valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer, and an expanded pianoless rhythm section), it had the potential to be a classic; even the material is generally good. Unfortunately, the dozen selections are overly concise (the longest clocks in at 4:01), with seven of the tunes being under three minutes long. McFarland's arrangements are fine, but the solos are quite short, and the Mexican-flavored music is not particularly memorable. A blown opportunity. Scott Yanow
Tracklist:
1     South of the Border 2'06
J.Kennedy / M. Carr
2     Acapulco at Night 2'52
Gary McFarland
3     Fantastic, That's You 2'54
G. Cates / G. Douglas
4     Limehouse Blues 3'37
Douglas Furber
5     Tijuana 2'09
G. Cates / G. Douglas
6     Marcheta 2'55
Victor Schertzinger
7     Granny's Samba 3'30
Gary McFarland
8     Soul Bird (Tin Tin Deo) 4'01
Paul Gonsalves
9     Mexicali Rose 2'27
H. Stone / J. Tenney
10     Ira Schwartz's Golden Dream 3'32
Gary McFarland
11     Mary Jane 3'05
Gary McFarland
12     Sweet Georgia Brown 2'06
B. Bermie / K. Casey / M. Pinkard
Credits  
Bass [Fender] – Bob Bushnell
Drums – Grady Tate, Mel Lewis
Guitar – Barry Galbraith, Toots Thielemans
Marimba, Piano [Wurlitzer], Vibraphone – Gary McFarland
Mastered By – Rudy Van Gelder
Trombone – Bob Brookmeyer
Trumpet – Clark Terry, Joe Newman

GERRY MULLIGAN / BEN WEBSTER - Gerry Mulligan Meets Ben Webster (1959-1995) RM / APE (image+.cue), lossless

Make no mistake about it, the swing and bop start right here on this legendary 1959 session between baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan and tenor man Ben Webster. Produced by Norman Granz as an early Verve album, this Mobile Fidelity 24-karat gold-disc reissue is sonically worth the extra bread as it feels like you're right in the control room every note of the way. The opening track, Billy Strayhorn's "Chelsea Bridge" is lush and emotional and truly sets the tone for this album. With Jimmy Rowles on piano (his intro on "Sunday" sounds like a ragtimer like Willie "The Lion" Smith just pushed him off the stool before the band came in), Mel Lewis on drums, and the always superb Leroy Vinnegar on bass present and accounted for, the rhythm section is superbly swinging with just the right amount of bop lines and chords in the mix to spice things up. The ghost of Duke Ellington hovers over every note on this record (Billy Strayhorn was one of his main arrangers) and that is a very good thing, indeed. There's a beautiful, understated quality to the music on this session that makes it the perfect relaxing around the house on a rainy day disc to pop in the player. File this one under cool, very smooth, and supple.   by Cub Koda  
Tracklist :
1 Chelsea Bridge 7:20
Billy Strayhorn
2 The Cat Walk 5:44
Gerry Mulligan / Ben Webster
3 Sundy 7:22
Gerry Mulligan
4 Who's Got Rhytm 7:39
Gerry Mulligan
5 Tell Me When 5:03
Gerry Mulligan
6 Go Home 10:02
 Chester Conn / Benny Krueger / Ned Miller / Jule Styne
7 In A Mellotone 6:54
Duke Ellington / Milt Gabler
8 What Is This Thing Called Love 7:26
Cole Porter
9 For Bessie 5:38
Ben Webster
10 Fajista 5:47
Ben Webster
11 Blues In B Flat 7:22
Gerry Mulligan
Credits :
Baritone Saxophone – Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Leroy Vinnegar
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Jimmy Rowles
Producer – Norman Granz
Tenor Saxophone – Ben Webster