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

GERRY MULLIGAN AND THE CONCERT JAZZ BAND - At the Village Vanguard (1961-2002) RM / FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

Of all the recordings made by Gerry Mulligan's Concert Jazz Band in the 1960s, this is the definitive one. There are many high points, including "Body and Soul" (which has fine solos from the baritone/leader and valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer), "Come Rain or Come Shine," and the swinging "Let My People Be," but "Blueport" takes honors. On the latter, after hot solos by Mulligan, trombonist Willie Dennis, and Jim Reider on tenor, Mulligan and trumpeter Clark Terry have a lengthy trade-off that is quite hilarious with a countless number of quotes from different songs; at one point they trade off cities. This music is essential. by Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Blueport 11:07
William Crow / Art Farmer
2     Body and Soul 5:45
Frank Eyton / John W. Green / Johnny Green / Edward Heyman / Robert Sour
3     Black Nightgown 4:10
Johnny Mandel
4     Come Rain or Come Shine 5:35
Harold Arlen / Johnny Mercer
5     Lady Chatterley's Mother 6:14
Al Cohn
6     Let My People Be 8:00
Gerry Mulligan
Piano – Gerry Mulligan
Credits :
Alto Clarinet – Gene Quill
Alto Saxophone – Bob Donovan
Baritone Saxophone – Gene Allen, Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Bill Crow
Bass Clarinet – Gene Allen
Clarinet – Gene Quill
Drums – Mel Lewis
Tenor Saxophone – Jim Reider
Trombone – Alan Ralph, Bob Brookmeyer, Willie Dennis
Trumpet – Clark Terry, Don Ferrara, Nick Travis

JERI SOUTHERN - Southern Breeze (1958-1989) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

One mark of a great jazz vocalist is the material she picks. Jeri Southern was one of the great students of jazz-era song, and the material she chose for Southern Breeze is strong in two ways -- they're not only great songs, but they're great for her. Never blessed with a strong voice, Southern instead realized the artistic advantages those qualities brought, and often chose torch songs or unlucky-in-love songs that accentuated her seeming weaknesses and everywoman qualities. With charts from arranger genius Marty Paich, Southern opens on a high note, the glib "Down with Love." Yet to come are happy yet forlorn choices "Who Wants to Fall in Love" and "Because He Reminds Me of You" -- Southern even finds the catch in "Crazy He Calls Me." And in true West Coast fashion, the music features brass that swings lightly and a dynamic range that frequently plumbs the depths (including tuba and baritone sax), all possible thanks to Paich's charts and able musicians including Georgie Auld, Don Fagerquist, and Bob Enevoldsen. Upbeat standards get their chance to shine as well -- "Ridin' High," "I Like the Likes of You" -- but most of Southern Breeze is gloriously melancholy. by John Bush
Tracklist :
1    Down with Love 3:14
Harold Arlen / E.Y. "Yip" Harburg
2    Crazy He Calls Me 3:49
Bob Russell / Carl Sigman
3    Lazy Bones 3:07
Hoagy Carmichael / Johnny Mercer
4    Who Wants to Fall in Love 3:17
Bart Howard
5    Then I'll Be Tired of You 3:50
E.Y. "Yip" Harburg / Arthur Schwartz
6    Ridin' High 2:24
Cole Porter
7    Because He Reminds Me of You 3:16
Mack Gordon / Harry Revel
8    Porgy 3:37
Dorothy Fields / Jimmy McHugh
9    Are These Really Mine 3:43
Robert Cook / David Saxon / Sunny Skylar
10    Isn't This a Lovely Day 3:01
Irving Berlin
11    Warm Kiss 2:58
Doris Fisher
12    I Like the Likes of You 2:55
Vernon Duke / E.Y. "Yip" Harburg
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Herb Geller
Arranged By, Conductor – Marty Paich
Baritone Saxophone – Jack Dulong
Bass – Bud Clark
Drums – Mel Lewis
French Horn – Vince De Rosa
Guitar – Bill Pittman
Tenor Saxophone – Georgie Auld
Trumpet – Don Fagerquist, Frank Beach
Tuba – John Kitzmiller
Valve Trombone – Bob Enevoldsen
Vocals – Jeri Southern

GERRY MULLIGAN / JOHNNY HODGES - Gerry Mulligan Meets Johnny Hodges (1959-2003) RM / FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Gerry Mulligan's 1959 studio date with Johnny Hodges is one of the most satisfying sessions of his various meetings with different saxophonists for Verve, yet it was inexplicably the last to be made available on CD. With a hand-picked rhythm section consisting of pianist Claude Williamson, bassist Buddy Clark, and drummer Mel Lewis, and three originals contributed by each of the two leaders, everything gels nicely, though several tracks took more than three takes (in spite of liner note writer Nat Hentoff's assertions) to reach their final form. Mulligan contributed the gorgeous ballad "What's the Rush" (where he sat back to enjoy Hodges' solo and never plays his own horn), the easygoing swinger "Bunny," and the brisk cooker "18 Carrots (For Rabbit)," the latter which its composer would revisit with his Concert Jazz Band. The veteran alto saxophonist contributed the low-key ballad "Shady Side," the sassy blues "Back Beat" (later re-recorded by Hodges during a still unreleased 1960 studio meeting with Ben Webster), and "What It's All About," another potent blues. Throughout the date, the two saxophonists blend beautifully and complement one another's efforts, even though this was their only opportunity to record together in the studio. Sadly, no alternate takes or unissued numbers (at least two of which exist) have been added to this long anticipated reissue. by Ken Dryden 
Tracklist:
1 Bunny 5:40
Written-By – Mulligan
2 What's The Rush 3:40
Written-By – Mulligan, Holliday
3 Back Beat 7:27
Written-By – Hodges
4 What's It All About 3:59
Written-By – Hodges
5 18 Carrots For Rabbit 6:40
Written-By – Mulligan
6 Shady Side 5:43
Written-By – Hodges
Credits:
Alto Saxophone – Johnny Hodges
Baritone Saxophone – Gerry Mulligan
Bass – Buddy Clark
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Claude Williamson

STAN KENTON - Cuban Fire! (1960-1991) MONO / FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This CD contains one of the classic Stan Kenton albums, a six-part suite composed and arranged by Johnny Richards. The Kenton orchestra was expanded to 27 pieces for these dates including six percussionists, two French horns and six trumpets. With such soloists as tenor-great Lucky Thompson (on "Fuego Cubano,") trombonist Carl Fontana, altoist Lennie Niehaus, Bill Perkins on tenor and trumpeters Sam Noto and Vinnie Tanno, and plenty of raging ensembles, this is one of Stan Kenton's more memorable concept albums of the 1950s. by Scott Yanow
Tracklist:
1 Fuego Cubano (Cuban Fire) 6:02
Johnny Richards
2 El Congo Valiente (Valiant Congo) 5:53
Johnny Richards
3 Recuerdos (Reminiscences) 5:01
Johnny Richards
4 Quien Sabe (Who Knows) 4:49
Johnny Richards
5 Guera Baila (The Fair One Dances) 5:09
Johnny Richards
6 La Suerte de los Tontos (Fortune of Fools) 4:20
Johnny Richards
7 Tres Corarones (Three Hearts) 2:59
Johnny Richards
8 Maliba Moonlight 3:51
Johnny Richards
9 El Dangon 4:34
Johnny Richards
10 Carnival 5:21
Gene Roland
11 Wagon 3:05
Johnny Richards
12 Early Hours (Lady Luck) 2:56
Gene Roland
Credits:
Alto Saxophone – Gabe Baltazar (tracks: 8 to 12), Lennie Niehaus (tracks: 1 to 7)
Baritone Saxophone – Billy Root (tracks: 1 to 7), Marvin Holladay (tracks: 8 to 12), Wayne Dunston (tracks: 8 to 12)
Bass – Curtis Counce (tracks: 1 to 7), Pete Chivily (tracks: 8 to 12)
Bass Saxophone – Wayne Dunston (tracks: 8 to 12)
Bass Trombone – Bob Knight (tracks: 8 to 12), Jim Amlotte (tracks: 8 to 12)
Bongos – Willie Rodriguez (tracks: 1 to 7)
Claves – Roger Mozian (tracks: 1 to 7)
Congas – George Acevedo (tracks: 8 to 12), Tommy Lopez (tracks: 1 to 7)
Drums – Art Anton (tracks: 8 to 12), Mel Lewis (tracks: 1 to 7)
Flugelhorn – Vinnie Tano (tracks: 1 to 7)
French Horn – Irving Rosenthal (tracks: 1 to 7x), Julius Watkins (tracks: 1 to 7)
Guitar – Ralph Blaze (tracks: 1 to 7)
Maracas – Mario Alvarez (tracks: 1 to 7)
Mellophone – Bill Horan (tracks: 8 to 12), Dwight Carver (tracks: 8 to 12), Gene Rolland (tracks: 8 to 12), Joe Burnett (tracks: 8 to 12), Tom Wirtel (tracks: 8 to 12)
Piano – Stan Kenton
Tenor Saxophone – Bill Perkins (tracks: 1 to 7), Lucky Thompson (tracks: 1 to 7), Paul Renzi (tracks: 8 to 12), Sam Donahue (tracks: 8 to 12)
Timbales – George Laguna (tracks: 1 to 7)
Timpani – George Gaber (tracks: 1 to 7), Saul Gubin (tracks: 1 to 7)
Trombone – Bob Fitzpatrick (tracks: 1 to 7), Carl Fontana (tracks: 1 to 7), Dick Hyde (tracks: 8 to 12), Don Kelly (tracks: 1 to 7), Kent Larsen (tracks: 1 to 7), Ray Sikora (tracks: 8 to 12)
Trumpet – Al Mattaliano (tracks: 1 to 7), Bob Rolfe (tracks: 8 to 12), Bud Brisbois (tracks: 8 to 12), Dalton Smith (tracks: 8 to 12), Ed Leddy (tracks: 1 to 7), John Audino (tracks: 8 to 12), Lee Katzman (tracks: 1 to 7), Phil Gilbert (tracks: 1 to 7), Sam Noto, Steve Hoffsteter (tracks: 8 to 12), Vinnie Tano (tracks: 1 to 7)
Tuba – Albert Pollan (tracks: 8 to 12), Jay McAllister (tracks: 1 to 7)

STAN KENTON - Cuban Fire! (1960) 

(1991)  Capitol / FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

O Púbis da Rosa

EDDIE DANIELS - First Prize! [1966] PRESTIGE / OJC / FLAC

 When one hears this early Eddie Daniels set, it is surprising to realize that he would remain in relative obscurity for almost another 20 years. As shown on the three of the eight selections on which he plays clarinet, Daniels even at this early stage ranked near the top, while his tenor playing on the remaining numbers was already personal and virtuosic. With the assistance of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis rhythm section of the time (pianist Roland Hanna, bassist Richard Davis and drummer Mel Lewis), Daniels is in top form on three standards, four originals and the pop tune "Spanish Flea."  by Scott Yanow
Track Listing
1 Felicidade 9:48
 2 That Waltz 6:56
 3 Falling in Love with Love 4:40
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
 4 Love's Long Journey 2:05
 5 Time Marches On 4:05
 6 The Spanish Flea 4:50
 7 The Rocker 3:37
 8 How Deep Is the Ocean? 10:41
Irving Berlin

 Credits

Bass – Richard Davis 

Drums – Mel Lewis

Piano – Roland Hanna

Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet – Eddie Daniels

EDDIE DANIELS - First Prize! 

[1966] PRESTIGE / OJC / FLAC / SCAN

O Púbis da Rosa

BUD SHANK QUINTET & SEXTET - New Groove / Barefoot Adventure [1961] FLAC / 2011 / Pacific Jazz

The two albums included here, New Groove, and Barefoot Adventure, present Bud Shank not only on alto sax, but also on baritone, an instrument he had played in clubs and as a sideman in sporadic studio sessions since the early 50s, but never before on his own recording dates. And while his alto has his customary command and fluency, his work on the less familiar baritone is equally impressive, the sound hard and driving, with expressive use of dynamics.

In these 1961 recordings, he fronts two similar groups, with a fresh approach, more groove-based and soulful, compared to previous works. With that in mind, he hired the young and talented trumpeter Carmell Jones, just arrived to the L.A. scene from Kansas City, whose warmth and enthusiasm on both sides are contagious. On Barefoot, the presence of Bob Cooper is felt throughout, with his tenor solos consistenly fluent and swinging.

In the rhythm, Dennis Budimir on guitar handles most of the comping chores in his puckish prodding way; Gary Peacock shows he was developing into a reliable rhythm mate; and Mel Lewis in the first date and Shelly Manne in the second, play with their celebrated taste, imagination, and musicianship.

"New Groove" 

1. New Groove (Shank) 6:44

2. The Awakening (Shank) 4:24

3. White Lightnin' (Shank) 5:20

4. Sultry Serenade (Ellington) 7:12

5. Well, You Needen't (Monk) 6:57

6. Liddledabllduya (Peacock) 3:55

O Púbis da Rosa 1

Carmell Jones (trumpet), 

Bud Shank (alto & baritone sax), 

Dennis Budimir (guitar), 

Gary Peacock (bass), 

Mel Lewis (drums).

Recorded at Rex Productions, 

Los Angeles, February 22, 1961

"Barefoot Adventure"

7. Barefoot Adventure (Shank) 4:12

8. Shoeless Beach Meeting (Shank) 4:05

9. Jungle Cruise (Shank) 4:44

10. How High the Makaha (Shank) 3:11

11. Well, 'Pon My Soul (Shank) 4:14

12. Ala Moana (Shank) 2:15

13. Bruce Is Loose (Shank) 3:23

14. Dance of the Sea Monsters (Shank) 4:07

Personnel on "Barefoot Adventure":

Bob Cooper (tenor sax), 

 Shelly Manne (drums)  replaces Mel Lewis.

Recorded at Rex Productions, 

Los Angeles, September 8, 1961

O Púbis da Rosa 2

O Púbis da Rosa 3