JOE HENDERSON QUARTETS — Tetragon (1968-1995) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Joe Henderson's second Milestone recording (which, as with all the others, is currently available on his massive "complete" eight-CD box set) features the great tenor with two separate rhythm sections: Kenny Barron or Don Friedman on piano, bassist Ron Carter and either Louis Hayes or Jack DeJohnette on drums. Highlights of this album include the title track, "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "Invitation." Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1.    Invitation    6:13
 Bronislaw Kaper / Paul Francis Webster 
2.    R. J.    5:33
 Ron Carter 
3.    The Bead Game    8:36
 Joe Henderson / Lee Konitz 
4.    Tetragon    5:37
 Joe Henderson 
5.    Waltz For Zweetie    4:25
 Walter Bishop, Sr. 
6.    First Trip    5:12
 Ron Carter 
7.    I've Got You Under My Skin    4:57
 Cole Porter 
Credits :
Bass – Ron Carter
Drums – Jack DeJohnette (tracks: 1 to 3, 5), Louis Hayes (tracks: 4, 6, 7)
Piano – Don Friedman (tracks: 1 to 3, 5), Kenny Barron (tracks: 4, 6, 7)
Tenor Saxophone – Joe Henderson

THE DAVE BRUBECK QUARTET — Jazz At Oberlin (1953) RM | Two Version | SACD, Hybrid | MONO | Original Jazz Classics Remasters Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Although a touch underrated, Jazz at Oberlin is one of the early Dave Brubeck classic recordings. The interplay between the pianist-leader and altoist Paul Desmond on "Perdido" borders on the miraculous, and their renditions of "The Way You Look Tonight," "How High the Moon" and "Stardust" are quite memorable. Brubeck's piano playing on "These Foolish Things" is so percussive and atonal in one spot as to sound like Cecil Taylor, who would not emerge for another two years. With bassist Ron Crotty and drummer Lloyd Davis giving the Quartet quiet and steady support, Brubeck and Desmond were free to play at their most adventurous. Highly recommended. Scott Yanow

Tracklist :

1 - These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You) 6:33
 Marvell / Jack Strachey 
2 - Perdido 7:32
 Juan Tizol 
3 - Stardust 6:30
 Hoagy Carmichael 
4 - The Way You Look Tonight 7:51
Dorothy Fields, Jerome Kern
5 - How High The Moon 9:11
William Lewis, Nancy Hamilton
Credits :
Paul Desmond - Alto Saxophone 

Dave Brubeck  - Piano 

Ron Crotty - Bass 

Lloyd Davis - Drums 

KEN McINTYRE · ERIC DOLPHY — Looking Ahead (1961-1994) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

It was quite fitting that Ken McIntyre had an opportunity to record in a quintet with Eric Dolphy, for his multi-instrumental approach was similar to Dolphy's, although he always had a very different sound. On this CD reissue, McIntyre plays alto on four tunes and flute on two others (his work on bassoon, oboe, and bass clarinet would come slightly later), while Dolphy mostly plays alto but doubles on flute on one number and switches to bass clarinet for "Dianna." With pianist Walter Bishop, Jr., bassist Sam Jones, and drummer Art Taylor offering concise solos and swinging support, McIntyre somehow almost holds his own with Dolphy on a variety of originals and George Gershwin's "They All Laughed." A very interesting date. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1. Lautir 4:03
Composed By – Ken McIntyre 
2. Curtsy 5:51
Composed By – Ken McIntyre 
3. Geo's Tune 7:13
Composed By – Ken McIntyre 
4. They All Laughed 5:06
Composed By – Gershwin-Gershwin
5. Head Shakin' 10:45
Composed By – Ken McIntyre 
6. Dianna 9:05
Composed By – Ken McIntyre 
Credits :
Alto Saxophone, Flute – Ken McIntyre
Alto Saxophone, Flute, Bass Clarinet – Eric Dolphy
Bass – Sam Jones
Drums – Arthur Taylor
Piano – Walter Bishop, Jr.

BARBARA LEA — Barbara Lea With The Johnny Windhurst Quintets (1957-1991) RM | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Singer Barbara Lea's second album is pretty definitive of her early years. Lea is joined by the great (but ill fated and largely forgotten) trumpeter Johnny Windhurst, Dick Cary on either piano or alto horn, sometimes pianist Richard Lowman, guitarist Al Casamenti, bassist Al Hall, and drummer Osie Johnson. Originally a dozen selections, the CD reissue adds an alternate take and an additional title. Lea remains true to the lyrics yet uplifts the material, while the rhythm section swings lightly. Among the many highlights are "Nobody Else but You," "I'm Comin' Virginia," "My Honey's Lovin' Arms," and "Baltimore Oriole." Delightful music by a singer who deserves to be celebrated. Scott Yanow
Tracklist : 
1 Nobody Else But Me 3:13 
Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern
2 Where Have You Been? 3:31
Cole Porter
3 I'm Coming Virginia 3:22 
Will Marion Cook / Donald Heywood
4 Honey in the Honeycomb 2:47 
Vernon Duke / John Latouche
5 Thrusday's Child 2:26 
Lee Holdridge
 6 I've Got a Pocketful of Dreams 1:21 
James V. Monaco
 7 My Honey's Lovin' Arms 2:46 
Joseph Meyer / Herman Ruby
 8 I Had Myself a True Love 3:45 
Harold Arlen / Johnny Mercer
 9 Gee Baby, Ain't I Good to You 3:08 
Andy Razaf / Don Redman
 10 I Feel at Home with You 2:34 
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
11 Baltimore Oriole 3:52 
Hoagy Carmichael / Paul Francis Webster
12 Blue Skies 3:07 
Irving Berlin
 13 I Feel at Home with You 2:46 
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
 14 Straw Hat Full of Lilacs 2:46
Credits :
Bass – Al Hall (tracks: 1 to 13)
Drums – Osie Johnson (tracks: 1 to 13)
Engineer [Recording Engineer] – Rudy Van Gelder
Guitar – Al Casamenti (tracks: 2 to 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13)
Harp – Unknown Artist (tracks: 14)
Horn [Alto Horn] – Dick Cary (tracks: 1, 7, 8, 11, 12)
Piano – Dick Cary (tracks: 2 to 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13), Richard Lowman (tracks: 1, 5, 8, 11)
Trumpet, Leader – Johnny Windhurst (tracks: 1 to 8, 9 to13)
Vocals – Barbara Lea

TOMMY FLANAGAN TRIO — Overseas (1957-1999) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This studio session represents one of Tommy Flanagan's earliest dates as a leader, recorded while he was in Stockholm, Sweden. Bassist Wilbur Little and a young Elvin Jones on drums provide strong support, but the focus is on Flanagan's brilliant piano. The brilliant opener is a potent brisk run through Charlie Parker's "Relaxin' at Camarillo," followed by a faster than typical "Chelsea Bridge," which the leader playfully detours into another Billy Strayhorn composition ("Raincheck") for a moment, while also featuring Jones' brushwork in a pair of breaks. Flanagan's approach to the venerable standard "Willow Weep for Me" is steeped in blues, backed by Little's imaginative accompaniment. The bulk of this date is devoted to Flanagan's compositions, though only one, "Eclypso," remained in his repertoire for long. This engaging piece alternates between calypso and bop, with Jones switching between sticks and brushes. "Beat's Up" has the obvious influence of Bud Powell, while the extended blues "Little Rock" opens with a sauntering bass solo. This album has been released under various titles on several labels, including DIW, Dragon, Met, and Prestige, though Fantasy reissued it with three alternate takes in 1999. -Ken Dryden
Tracklist :
1. Relaxin' At Camarillo 3:20
 Charlie Parker 
2. Chelsea Bridge 3:45
 Billy Strayhorn 
3. Eclypso 6:00
 Tommy Flanagan 
4. Beat's Up 4:20
 Tommy Flanagan 
5. Skal Brothers 2:30
 Tommy Flanagan 
6. Little Rock 7:00
 Tommy Flanagan 
7. Verdandi 2:10
 Tommy Flanagan 
8. Delarna 4:35
 Tommy Flanagan 
9. Willow Weep For Me 6:20
 Ann Ronell 
– BONUS TRACKS –
10. Delarna (take 2) 4:35
 Tommy Flanagan 
11. Verdandi (take 2) 2:10
 Tommy Flanagan 
12. Willow Weep For Me (take 1) 6:12
 Ann Ronell
Credits :
Bass – Wilbur Little
Drums – Elvin Jones
Piano – Tommy Flanagan

WES MONTGOMERY — So Much Guitar (1961) RM | Four Version | Original Jazz Classics Remasters Series | 24-Karat Gold Plated | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

One of Wes Montgomery's finest recordings, a Riverside date that showcases the influential guitarist in a quintet with pianist Hank Jones, bassist Ron Carter, drummer Lex Humphries, and the congas of Ray Barretto. All eight performances are memorable in their own way, with "Cottontail," "I'm Just a Lucky So and So," and a brief unaccompanied "While We're Young" being high points. -Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1. "Twisted Blues" (Wes Montgomery) – 5:31
2. "Cotton Tail" (Duke Ellington) – 3:38
3. "I Wish I Knew" (Mack Gordon, Harry Warren) – 5:26
4. "I'm Just a Lucky So-and-So" (Ellington, Mack David) – 5:57
5. "Repetition" (Neal Hefti) – 3:48
6. "Somethin' Like Bags" (Montgomery) – 4:44
7. "While We're Young" (Morty Palitz, Alec Wilder) – 2:12
8. "One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)"  (Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer) – 7:38
Credits :
Wes Montgomery – Guitar
Ron Carter – Bass
Lex Humphries – Drums
Ray Barretto – Conga
Hank Jones – Piano 

JEAN THIELEMANS — Man Bites Harmonica! (1958-1995) RM | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | Two Version | Mp3 + FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Although he plays guitar exclusively on two of the eight selections included on this CD reissue, it is Toots Thielemans' harmonica playing that is most unique. He holds his own on a hard bop blowing date with baritonist Pepper Adams, pianist Kenny Drew, bassist Wilbur Ware and drummer Art Taylor, jamming on such songs as "East of the Sun," "Struttin' with Some Barbeque" and "Isn't It Romantic." Even four decades later, no jazz harmonica player has dethroned the great Toots. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    East Of The Sun 7:14
Written-By – Brooks Bowman
2    Don't Blame Me 2:27
Written-By – Fields - McHugh
3    18th Century Ballroom 3:46
Written-By – Ray Bryant
4    Soul Station 6:58
Written-By – Jean Thielemans
5    Fundamental Frequency 4:54
Written-By – Jean Thielemans
6    Strutting With Some Barbecue 4:30
Written-By – Lil Arrmstrong
7    Imagination 4:27
Written-By – Burke - Van Heusen
8    Isn't It Romantic 5:16
Written-By – Rodgers & Hart
Credits :
Baritone Saxophone – Pepper Adams (tracks: 1, 3 to 6, 8)
Bass – Wilbur Ware
Drums – Art Taylor
Guitar, (tracks: 3, 4, 7), Harmonica, (tracks: 1, 2, 4 to 6, 8) – Jean Thielemans
Piano – Kenny Drew

THE KENNY DREW TRIO — Pal Joey (1957-1992) RM | MONO | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | Two Version | Mp3 + FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

It seems strange that (with the exception of a 1960 session for Blue Note) this would be pianist Kenny Drew's last session as a leader until 1973. With bassist Wilbur Ware and drummer Philly Joe Jones, Drew interprets eight Rodgers and Hart tunes, five written for the play Pal Joey and three of their earlier hits that were included in the film version. Drew contributes swing and subtle bop-based improvising to these superior melodies (which are highlighted by "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered," "I Could Write a Book," and "The Lady Is a Tramp"), and the results are quite memorable. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
 1. Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered (4:08)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
2. Do It The Hard Way (5:47)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
3. I Didn't Know What Time It Was (3:58)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
4. Happy Hunting Horn (4:15)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
5. I Could Write A Book (4:38)  
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
6. What Is A Man? (5:04)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
7. My Funny Valentine (4:05)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
8. The Lady Is A Tramp (5:40)
  Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
Credits :
Kenny Drew - Piano
Wilbur Ware - Bass
Philly Joe Jones - Drums

JOHN WRIGHT — Mr. Soul (1962-1995) RM | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The flurry of interest in pianist John Wright in the early 1960s coincided with the soul movement in jazz.
The basic elements in his music may have qualified him for souldom in the minds of record marketers. But Wright had facets beyond his gospel and blues roots, and he 'soul' label attached to his recordings did him the disservice of suggesting a limited range. There's plenty soul in this collection, but Wright also had harmonic depth and a lyrical side that are on display here not only in the first three tracks, but in much of the blues-drenched original material that makes up the rest of the álbum. Wright's sensitive keyboard touch and crisp articulation impart a tripping lightness to even his churchiest expressions. He is accompanied by Wendel Marshall, na omnipresente bassist in the 1950s and '60s, and drummer Walter Perkinks, Jr. in the days before he worked with Art Farmer and Sonny Rollins. notes to CD. 
Tracklist :
1.    Our Waltz 5:21
David Rose
2.    Blue Prelude 3:25
Joe Bishop / Gordon Jenkins
3.    What's New? 5:29
Johnny Burke / Bob Haggart
4.    Everything's Gonna Work Out Fine 3:23
 (writer unknown)
5.    Mr. Soul 5:32
Esmond Edwards
6.    Shake 2:31
John Wright
7.    Strut 5:16
John Wright
8.    Now Hang in There 4:03
John Wright
Credits :
John Wright - Piano
Wendell Marshall - Bass
Walter Perkins, Jr. - Drums

JACK DeJOHNETTE — Sorcery (1974-1994) RM | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

A lot of rambling takes place on this interesting but erratic LP. Drummer Jack DeJohnette (doubling on keyboards) performs three songs with a group featuring bass clarinetist Bennie Maupin and the guitars of John Abercrombie and Mick Goodrick; the music shows the influence of fusion (most obviously on "The Rock Thing") and has its strong moments (much of the nearly 14-minute "Sorcery #1"). But the attempt at humor on "The Right Time" is self-indulgent. The second half of this release, with trios by DeJohnette, bassist Dave Holland, and Michael Fellerman on metaphone (whatever that is), are less memorable. While one admires DeJohnette's willingness to take chances, this music has not dated well. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1. Sorcery, No. 1 - 13:50
 Jack DeJohnette
2. The Right Time - 2:21
 Jack DeJohnette
3. The Rock Thing - 4:14
 Jack DeJohnette
4. The Reverend King Suite: Reverend King/Obstructions/The Fatal Shot/Mourning/Unrest/New Spirits on the Horizon (John Coltrane/DeJohnette) - 14:19
 John Coltrane / Jack DeJohnette
5. Four Levels of Joy - 3:09
 Jack DeJohnette
6. Epilog (DeJohnette-Holland) - 3:11
 Jack DeJohnette / Dave Holland
Credits :
Jack DeJohnette - Drums, Keyboards, C-Melody Saxofone
Bennie Maupin - Bass Clarinet
John Abercrombie, Mick Goodrick - Guitars
Dave Holland - Bass
Michael Fellerman - Metaphone, Trombone

JACKIE McLEAN — 4, 5 And 6 (1956) Four Version | RM | SACD | RVG | The Prestige Mono Series | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

In 1956 Jackie McLean was only beginning to assert himself as a true individualist on the alto saxophone, exploring the lime-flavored microtones of his instrument that purists or the misinformed perceived as being off-key or out of tune. 4, 5 and 6 presents McLean's quartet on half the date, and tunes with an expanded quintet, and one sextet track -- thus the title. Mal Waldron, himself an unconventional pianist willing to explore different sizings and shadings of progressive jazz, is a wonderful complement for McLean's notions, with bassist Doug Watkins and drummer Art Taylor the impervious team everyone wanted for his rhythm section at the time. The quartet versions of "Sentimental Journey," "Why Was I Born?," and "When I Fall in Love" range from totally bluesy, to hard bop ribald, to pensive and hopeful, respectively. These are three great examples of McLean attempting to make the tunes his own, adding a flattened, self-effaced, almost grainy-faced texture to the music without concern for the perfectness of the melody. Donald Byrd joins the fray on his easygoing bopper "Contour," where complex is made simple and enjoyable, while Hank Mobley puts his tenor sax to the test on the lone and lengthy sextet track, a rousing version of Charlie Parker's risk-laden "Confirmation." It's Waldron's haunting ballad "Abstraction," with Byrd and McLean's quick replies, faint and dour, that somewhat illuminates the darker side. As a stand-alone recording, 4, 5 and 6 does not break barriers, but does foreshadow the future of McLean as an innovative musician in an all-too-purist mainstream jazz world. Michael G. Nastos
Tracklist :
1.    Jackie McLean Quartet–    Sentimental Journey    (9:59)
 Les Brown / Bud Green / Ben Homer
2.    Jackie McLean Quartet–    Why Was I Born?    (5:16)
 Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern
3.    Jackie McLean Quintet–    Contour    (5:02)
 Kenny Drew
4.    Jackie McLean Sextet–    Confirmation    (11:25)
 Charlie Parker
5.    Jackie McLean Quartet–    When I Fall In Love    (5:35
 Edward Heyman / Victor Young
6.    Jackie McLean Quintet–    Abstraction (8:02)
 Mal Waldron
Credits :
Jackie McLean - Alto Saxophone
Donald Byrd - Trumpet (#3, 4, 6 only)
Hank Mobley - Tenor Saxophone (#4 only)
Mal Waldron - Piano
Doug Watkins - Bass
Arthur Taylor - Drums

HERBIE MANN · BOBBY JASPAR — Flute Soufflé (1957-1992) RM | FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

At the time of this Prestige set (reissued on CD), Herbie Mann was a flutist who occasionally played tenor and Bobby Jaspar a tenor-saxophonist who doubled on flute. Two of the four songs find them switching back and forth while the other two are strictly flute features. With pianist Tommy Flanagan, guitarist Joe Puma, bassist Wendell Marshall and drummer Bobby Donaldson contributing quiet support, the two lead voices constantly interact and trade off during this enjoyable performance. Highpoints are the haunting "Tel Aviv" and a delightful version of "Chasing the Bird."  Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
 1    Tel Aviv 14:38    
Herbie Mann
 2    Somewhere Else 5:55    
Joe Puma
 3    Let's March 7:21    
Herbie Mann
 4    Chasin' the Bird 8:13
Charlie Parker
Credits :
Bass – Wendell Marshall
Drums – Bobby Donaldson
Engineer [Recording] – Rudy Van Gelder
Flute & Tenor Saxophones – Bobby Jaspar, Herbie Mann
Guitar – Joe Puma
Piano – Tommy Flanagan

BARNEY KESSEL — Vol. 3 "To Swing or Not to Swing" (1955-1987) Two Version | APE (image+.cue), lossless + FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Guitarist Barney Kessel's string of recordings for Contemporary in the 1950s included some of the finest work of his career. The unusual repertoire on this set -- which includes "Louisiana," "Indiana," and "12th Street Rag," along with four Kessel originals and more usual standards -- would by itself make this bop/cool set noteworthy. Add to that a very interesting lineup of players (trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison, Georgie Auld or Bill Perkins on tenor, pianist Jimmy Rowles, the rhythm guitar of Al Hendrickson, bassist Red Mitchell, and Shelly Manne or Irv Cottler on drums) and some excellent showcases for Kessel, and the overall result is a recording highly recommended to fans of straight-ahead jazz. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1. Begin The Blues 4:21
Written-By – Barney Kessel
2. Louisiana 3:55
Written-By – Andy Razaf, Bob Schaefer, J.C. Johnson
3. Happy Feeling 3:55
Written-By – Barney Kessel
4. Embraceable You 3:21
Written-By – Ira And George Gershwin
5. Wail Street 4:21
Written-By – Barney Kessel
6. Indiana 3:08
Written-By – Ballard MacDonald, James F. Hanley
7. Moten Swing 3:56
Written-By – Bennie Moten, Buster Moten
8. Midnight Sun 3:05
Written-By – Lionel Hampton, Sonny Burke
9. Contemporary Blues 4:05
Written-By – Barney Kessel
10. Don't Blame Me 2:54
Written-By – Dorothy Fields And Jimmy McHugh
11. 12th Street Rag 2:56
Written-By – Euday L. Bowman
Credits :
Bass – Red Mitchell
Drums – Irv Cottler, Shelly Manne
Guitar – Barney Kessel
Piano – Jimmy Rowles
Rhythm Guitar – Al Hendrickson
Tenor Saxophone – Bill Perkins, Georgie Auld
Trumpet – Harry Edison

CAL TJADER · MARY STALLINGS — Cal Tjader Plays, Mary Stallings Sings (1961-2005) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Mary Stallings was just 22 at the time this album, her first, was cut in 1961. Fortunately, she was teamed up with a group of top professionals led by vibist Cal Tjader. She also sticks with mostly tried and true material, with Duke Ellington's songs getting a big play. Tjader is not a virtuoso on the vibes, but has made a name for himself because of his attachment to Latin rhythms. With no such music on this album, Tjader's playing seems somewhat stiff at times, particularly on ballads and slow blues. However, alternating pianists Lonnie Hewitt and Clare Fischer get with the program to give Stallings the backing she needs. The vibes player also loosens up on up-tempo tunes like "It Ain't Necessarily So." The singer has a powerful voice with a straight from the shoulder, no holds barred delivery. Her years singing in churches in San Francisco no doubt helped to develop her powerful style, and also give her some sympathy for such tunes as "God Bless the Child," which gets a particularly reverent reading. Paul Horn's flute helps make this a premier track. Stallings also makes good use of vibrato to emphasize a word or a phrase. This technique is used effectively on blues tunes such as "Mr. Blues." Stallings' dedication to pitch comes through on "Just Squeeze Me," where the bass is her only accompaniment. But some seasoning is needed. She sings everything with just about the same volume, paying no attention to dynamics. But all the equipment is there and, coupled with a natural affinity for the blues and swing, taking care of this matter should be no problem. Dave Nathan 

Tracklist :
1     Mighty Rumblin' Blues    3:46
    Written-By – Unknown Artist
2     It Ain't Necessarily So  2:28
    Written-By – Gershwin-Gershwin

3     God Bless The Child   3:14
    Written-By – Herzog, Holiday
4     Just Squeeze Me   2:37
    Written-By – Ellington, Gaines
5     I Didn't Know About You    3:47
    Written-By – Russell, Ellington
6     I'm Beginning To See The Light    3:08
    Written-By – George, Ellington, James, Hodges
7     Goodbye    2:40
    Written-By – Gordon Jenkins
8     Why Don't You Do Right?    2:36
    Written-By – McCoy, Melrose
9     Honeysuckle Rose 2:08
    Written-By – Razaf, Waller
10     I'm Just A Lucky So And So    2:28
    Written-By – Ellington, David
11     Ain't Misbehavin' (I'm Saving My Love For You)    3:07
    Written-By – Razaf, Waller, Brooks
12     Mr. Blues    2:39
    Written-By – Costell Akrie
– BONUS TRACKS – (Previously Unreleased)
13    Just In Time    1:59
14    Why Don't You Do Right? [Alt. Take]    2:38
Credits :
    Bass – Freddie Schreiber, Victor Venegas
    Drums – Johnny Rae
    Vocals – Mary Stallings
    Flute – Paul Horn
    Piano – Lonnie Hewitt
    Vibraphone – Cal Tjader   

MILT JACKSON — Milt Jackson Quartet (1955) Two Version (2001, RM | 24 Bit Remastered Series) + (2013, RM | MONO | SHM-CD | 7000 Chronicle Series) FLAC (image+tracks+.cue), lossless

This 1955 date is an intriguing opportunity to hear Milt Jackson accompanied by the MJQ rhythm section, but with hard bopper Horace Silver substituting for John Lewis. Not only that, it's also a chance to hear a hitherto unknown, lushly romantic side of both Jackson and Silver, two blues-oriented players who rarely if ever recorded standards in this sort of style. With its excellent recording quality, it's a perfect album for intimate dinners and other late-night activities. Artie Shaw's exotic "Moonray" is rarely heard in any sort of context, while "My Funny Valentine" and "The Nearness of You" set the mood throughout.  Richard Mortifoglio
Tracklist  :
1 Wonder Why 5:22
Written-By – Brodszky, Cahn
2 My Funny Valentine 4:37
Written-By – Rodgers-Hart
3 Moonray 5:01
Written-By – Quenzer, Shaw, Madison
4 The Nearness Of You 4:01
Written-By – Carmichael, Washington
5 Stonewall 7:42
Written-By – Milt Jackson
6 I Should Care 4:16
Written-By – Stordal, Weston, Cahn
Credits :
Bass – Percy Heath
Drums – Connie Kay
Piano – Horace Silver
Vibraphone [Vibes] – Milt Jackson

KENNY BURRELL · JIMMY RANEY — Two Guitars (1957-1992) RM | Two Version | APE + FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

For this 1957 studio session, the two distinctive but complementary guitarists Kenny Burrell and Jimmy Raney are teamed up in a septet with trumpeter Donald Byrd, altoist Jackie McLean, pianist Mal Waldron, bassist Doug Watkins, and drummer Art Taylor. The full group gets to stretch out on one original each by Watkins and McLean ("Little Melonae") and three from Waldron, while the two standards ("Close Your Eyes" and "Out of Nowhere") are individual features for Burrell and Raney. This is a well-rounded set that may not contain any real surprises, but will be enjoyed by collectors of hard bop. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1 Blue Duke 8:46
Written-By – Mal Waldron
2 Dead Heat 4:05
Written-By – Waldron 
3 Pivot 5:12
Written-By – Waldron
4 Close Your Eyes 4:46
Written-By – Bernice Petkere
5 Little Melonae 9:27
Written-By – Jackie McLean
6 This Way 11:20
Written-By – Doug Watkins
7 Out Of Nowhere 4:31
Written-By – Hyman, Green
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Jackie Mclean
Bass – Doug Watkins
Drums – Arthur Taylor
Guitar – Jimmy Raney, Kenny Burrell
Piano – Mal Waldron
Trumpet – Donald Byrd

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

JIM HALL — ...Where Would I Be? (1971-1999) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Although the rhythm section was more "modern" than he usually used (keyboardist Benny Aronov, bassist Malcolm Cecil, and Airto Moreira on drums and percussion), guitarist Jim Hall (who always had a harmonically advanced style anyway) has little difficulty adapting to the fresh setting. Highlights of the well-rounded CD reissue include Hall's "Simple Samba," "Baubles, Bangles and Beads," an unaccompanied "I Should Care," and Milton Nascimento's "Vera Cruz." Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1 Simple Samba 4:18
Jim Hall
2 Where Would I Be? 5:11
Jane Herbert
3 Careful 4:54  
Jim Hall
4 Baubles, Bangles and Beads 3:26
Alexander Borodin / George Forrest / Robert Wright
5 Minotaur 8:08
Jim Hall
6 I Should Care 3:50
Sammy Cahn / Axel Stordahl / Paul Weston
7 Vera Cruz 3:55
Márcio Borges / Milton Nascimento
8 Goodbye, My Love 5:37  
Jane Herbert
Credits :
Bass – Malcolm Cecil
Drums – Airto Moreira
Guitar – Jim Hall
Piano – Benny Aronov

OSCAR PETERSON · STÉPHANE GRAPPELLI — Skol (1979) Two Version (1990, RM | 20 Bit Remastered Series) + (2013, RM | Original Jazz Classics Remasters Series) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Pianist Oscar Peterson and violinist Stephane Grappelli meet up on this Scandinavian concert. The "backup" crew (guitarist Joe Pass, bassist Niels Pedersen and drummer Mickey Roker) is not too bad either. In addition to a closing blues (which is highlighted by tradeoffs from Peterson and Grappelli), the quintet performs five veteran standards with creativity and swing. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1. Nuages – 8:18
(Jacques Larue, Django Reinhardt)
2. How About You? – 5:19
(Arthur Freed, Burton Lane)
3. Someone to Watch Over Me – 6:50
(George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)
4. Makin' Whoopee – 5:10
(Walter Donaldson, Gus Kahn)
5. That's All – 7:33
(Alan Brandt, Bob Haymes)
6. Skol Blues – 7:04
 (Oscar Peterson)
– BONUS TRACK – (Previously unreleased)    
7. Honeysuckle Rose 6:32
8. Solitude 5:59
9. I Got Rhythm 6:33
Credits :
Oscar Peterson – Piano
Stéphane Grappelli – Violin
Joe Pass – Guitar
Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen – Double Bass
Mickey Roker – Drums

BENNIE GREEN — Blows His Horn (1955-1989) RM | Original Jazz Classics Limited Edition Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Bennie Green, one of the few trombonists of the 1950s not to sound somewhat like a J.J. Johnson clone, always had a likable and humorous style. He blends in well with tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse on these standards, blues, and jump tunes, two of which have group vocals. With a fine rhythm section (pianist Cliff Smalls, bassist Paul Chambers, drummer Osie Johnson, and Candido on congas), Green and his band show that there is no reason that swinging jazz has to be viewed as overly intellectual and esoteric. This CD (a reissue of the original LP) is a fine example of Bennie Green's talents and winning musical personality. Scott Yanow

Tracklist :
1. Sometimes I'm Happy 3:53
 Irving Caesar / Clifford Grey / Vincent Youmans
2. Laura 6:13
 Johnny Mercer / David Raksin
3. Body And Soul 6:58
 Frank Eyton / Johnny Green / Edward Heyman / Robert Sour
4. Say Jack 3:36
 Bennie Green / Osie Johnson
5. One Track 3:15
Bennie Green / Osie Johnson
6. Groovin' The Blues (Take 1) 5:31
 Bennie Green
7. Groovin' The Blues (Take 2)
Bennie Green
8. Travelin' Light 3:07
 Harry Akst / Sidney Clare
9. Hi Yo Silver 3:21
 Bennie Green / Osie Johnson
Credits:

Bennie Green - Trombone

Paul Chambers - Bass

Candido - Congas

Osie Johnson - Drums

Cliff Smalls - Piano

Charlie Rouse - Tenor Saxophone