Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis and Harry "Sweets" Edison - Vol. 1

It's hard to discuss this album without gushing or sounding overbearing, but the truth of the matter is...it's a real cooker.  Recorded in Denmark, our two heroes enlisted Kenny Drew and his active trio for rhythm.  John Darville stopped by also, and cut two tracks; Lester Leaps In and Blues Walk with his trombone.  I wasn't familiar with bassist Hugo Rasmussen or drummer Svend Erik Norregard, but they affirm their skill along with Kenny Drew.

As mentioned, when the full band is playing for Lester Leaps In and Blues Walk, it's a thing of jazz beauty.  Darville brings the classic bop style 'bone to the session and it's clear that Jaws and Sweets are up for it.  I wasn't too sure about the treatment for Blues Walk, but once they are through you will want to hear it again.  Both leaders take a ballad each and deliver sublime performances.  The rest of this session is a relatively upbeat affair, on standard tunes.

There's something about Sweets that really grabs me on this set.  I can't put my finger on it, or really describe it without sounding ridiculous.  I will just chalk it up to the magic of music.  I just find it incredible how these musicians could stamp their souls onto the music, and have it touch someone all these years later.  In most cases, long after they have passed.

Not only is the music fantastic, but so is the fidelity of the recording.  I would rate it above average to be sure.  This copy is an original Storyville (SLP 4004) stereo pressing, in minty condition.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC, to bring souls of old and present together...enjoy!!!

Harry Edison (tp);  Eddie Davis (ts);  *John Darville (tb);  Kenny Drew (p);
Hugo Rasmussen (b);  Svend Erik Norregard (d).

*only on Lester Leaps In and Blues Walk


Storyville SLP-4004
Recorded in Denmark, 1976