Eric Kloss - In The Land Of The Giants (1969) [vinyl]

This set from 1969, finds the emerging Kloss in full flight, whether the setting is post-bop or modal, standard or balladic. At this juncture, Kloss shows maturity, outstanding technical chops and depth while the now famous supporting cast were obviously motivated and geared up for this session. The personnel here consists of Kloss; Alto Sax, Booker Ervin; Tenor Sax; Jaki Byard; Piano; Alan Dawson; Drums and Richard Davis; Bass. Highlights are, an absolutely stunning, up-tempo version of Miles Davis’ “So What” featuring the towering and vigorous tenor saxophone work of the late Booker Ervin. Here, Kloss and Ervin take turns reaching for the stars via soaring and electrifying lead soloing!........Not a cutting contest yet these esteemed gentlemen perform with conviction as if they were possessed by spirits... Kloss' sweet alto sax tone and sumptuous phrasing is evident on "When Two Lovers Touch". On the Ellington classic, "Things Ain't What They Used To Be" Kloss' expressionism and emotive lyricism displays mature sensibilities and expertise for such a young lad. ~ by Glenn Astarita.

Prestige Records, PRST 7627, 1989

Recorded 2^nd January, 1969 in New York City

Musicians:

Eric Kloss - Alto Saxophone

Booker Ervin - Tenor Saxophone

Jaki Byard - Piano

Richard Davis - Bass

Alan Dawson - Drums

Tracks:

A1. Summertime {George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin, DuBose Heyward} (7:30)

A2. So What {Miles Davis} (11:00)

B1. Sock It To Me Socrates {Eric Kloss} (5:17)

B2. When Two Lovers Touch {Eric Kloss} (5:34)

B3. Things Ain't What They Used To Be {Duke Ellington, Ted Persons} (5:48)

Total Time: 35:09

Credits:

Producer, Design - Don Schlitten

Recording Engineer - Dave Jones

Notes - Don Lass (May 1969)