1. |
Down Home - ZOOT SIMS
A stonking jam session - swings like crazy - make sure you get the version with the out-takes included as well. |
| 2. |
Bird Is Free - CHARLIE PARKER
Fantastically fluid, unbelievable invention and creativity and yet it sounds great fun - bad recording quality (outdoors?) but essential |
| 3. |
Saxophone Colossus / Tenor Madness - SONNY ROLLINS
Originally two record, but now they are available on one cd. Great playing: but also great fun as the giant man romps through his stuff with style, flair, enthusiasm & unbounded energy. |
| 4. |
The Panther - DEXTER GORDON
A sort of about turn from 'hard bop' that is typical of the Dexter and a nod back to Lester:
Less muscle more emotion and my favourite version of 'body and soul'. |
| 5. |
Ju-Ju - WAYNE SHORTER
Powerful but crafted solos matched by powerfully crafted compositions - it has to parallel a day trip to a steel mill regarding process and product! - with Elvin/McCoy/ReggieWorkman |
| 6. |
ESP - MILES DAVIS
If not heard before it will sound strangely familiar: it is the first album by the quintet that even today many small groups aspire to - Davis/Shorter/Hancock/Carter/Williams |
| 7. |
My Song - KEITH JARRETT
Ignoring the first track, which is merely extremely good - I find hard to play another cd after this one finishes, having said it all! |
| 8. |
Points Of View - DAVE HOLLAND
This takes the small group playing of 6 forwards to state of the art - some really effective yet relaxed odd time signatures - Billy Kilson on drums -whoa! |
| 9. |
Song For Someone - KENNY WHEELER
Oxley and Matthewson set the standard in rhythm sections - we should remember Alan Branscombe and Mike Osborne - exceptionally effective Norma Winstone contributions. |
| 10. |
New Orleans Suite - DUKE ELLINGTON
'Portrait of Mahalia Jackson' is almost impossible to bear unless in the most upbeat mood, in broad daylight, surrounded by circus clowns! |
