Various Artists - The History Of Chess Jazz (1996)

History of Chess Jazz is a double-disc set featuring highlights from the label's overlooked jazz catalog. Among the artists included are Kenny Burrell, Woody Herman, Ramsey Lewis, Etta James, Ahmad Jamal, and Zoot Sims. Jazz wasn't one of Chess' strong points, but there is plenty of fine music here, making it a worthwhile sampler. ~ by Stephen Thomas Erlewine, AMG. 

Chess Records, GRD-2-812, 1996
Recorded May, 1950 - April, 1967 

Tracklist: 

CD1:
01. Ahmad Jamal - Poinciana {Buddy Bernier, Nat Simon} (9:31)
02. Sonny Stitt, Bennie Green - My Main Man {Bennie Green, Sonny Stitt} (5:59)
03. Red Rodney - Shaw 'Nuff {Ray Brown, Gil Fuller, Dizzy Gillespie} (6:36)
04. The Jazztet - Killer Joe (Benny Golson} (4:14)
05. Zoot Sims - The Man I Love {George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin} (5:16)
06. Roland Kirk - Soul Station {Rahsaan Roland Kirk} (5:28)
07. James Moody, Eddie Jefferson - Parker's Mood {Eddie Jefferson, Charlie Parker} (3:24)
08. Woody Herman - Keep On Keepin' On {Richard Evans} (4:19)
09. Ray Bryant - Gotta Travel On {Paul Clayton, Larry Ehrlich, Dave Lazer, Tom Six} (4:24)
10. Benny Goodman - Benny Rides Again {Eddie Sauter} (4:33)
11. John Klemmer - My Love Has Butterfly Wings {John Klemmer} (3:53)
12. Etta James - At Last {Mack Gordon, Harry Warren} (3:00)
13. Ramsey Lewis - The "In" Crowd {Billy Page} (5:50) 

Time: 66:32 

CD2:
01. Barry Harris - Ornithology {Benny Harris, Charlie Parker} (3:32)
02. James Moody - Last Train From Overbrook {James Moody} (3:03)
03. Gene Ammons - My Foolish Heart {Ned Washington, Victor Young} (2:48)
04. Lorez Alexandria - Baltimore Oriole {Hoagy Carmichael, Paul Francis Webster} (3:11)
05. Oliver Nelson - A Bientot {Billy Taylor} (3:48)
06. Yusef Lateef - Morning [Excerpt] {Yusef Lateef, Sandy Owen} (3:14)
07. Odell Brown - Mellow Yellow {Donovan} (5:28)
08. Art Farmer - Tonk {Ray Bryant} (3:05)
09. Illinois Jacquet - You're My Thrill {Jay Gorney, Burton Lane, Ned Washington} (3:50)
10. Howard McGhee - House Warnin' {Marshall Pau, Paul Winley} (2:31)
11. Chubby Jackson - Tiny's Blues {Al Cohn, Tiny Kahn} (5:01)
12. Clark Terry - Candy {Mack David, Alex Kramer, Joan Whitney} (2:23)
13. Benny Golson - The Touch {Benny Golson} (5:19)
14. Kenny Burrell - Silent Night {Franz Gruber, Joseph Mohr} (2:35) 

Time: 49:54 

Total Time: 01:56:26

Ray Bryant - Live At Basin Street East (1964)

Ray Bryant's second album for Sue was the one of two releases taped during an engagement at Basin Street East in New York City in 1964. The pianist is joined by bassist Jimmy Rowser and drummer Ben Riley (neither of whom is credited on the album jacket). This LP concentrates primarily on standards, although one pop song of the period (Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind") is thrown in, along with a pair of Bryant's originals. The piano is in decent shape, though Bryant is fairly conservative in his approach to most of the tunes, resulting in a somewhat uninspired treatment of "C Jam Blues" and a funky but lackluster "Love for Sale." One of his more unusual choices is organist Wild Bill Davis' "Blues Azure" (also known as "Azure Te," as it was titled when Duke Ellington performed it between 1969 and 1971 with its composer in his orchestra). The audience, for the most part, seems more interested in talking among themselves than realizing they are witnessing the making of a live recording. Long unavailable following the demise of the label, this music was reissued on CD by Collectables in 1996. ~ Ken Dryden, AMG. 

Sue Records, STLP 1019, 1964
Collectables Records, COL-5755, 1996
Recorded at Basin Street East, New York City in 1964 

Musicians:
Ray Bryant - Piano
Jimmy Rowser - Bass
Ben Riley - Drums 

Tracks:
01. What Is This Thing Called Love? {Cole Porter} (3:55)
02. C Jam Blues {Barney Bigard, Duke Ellington} (3:50)
03. Sister Suzie {Ray Bryant} (4:42)
04. This Is All I Ask {Buford Busbee, Charles Mitchell, Gordon Jenkins} (2:37)
05. Love for Sale {Cole Porter} (4:25)
06. Blowin' In The Wind (Bob Dylan} (4:21)
07. Satin Doll (Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Billy Strayhorn} (4:55)
08. Days Of Wine And Roses (Henry Mancini, Johnny Mercer} (4:13)
09. Blue Azurte {Wild Bill Davis} (2:35)
10. All The Young Ladies {Ray Bryant} (3:25) 

Total Time: 39:03 

Credits:
Producer, Director - Juggy Murray
Engineer - Phil Macy
Art Direction, Design, Cover - Frank Lerner
Photography - Chuck Stewart
Liner Notes - Ren Grevatt

Ray Bryant Trio - Ray's Tribute To His Jazz Piano Friends (1998)

Though I have several recordings on which Ray Bryant appears, I had been unaware of who he is and where he fits in the musical scheme of things. Recently, while listening to several demo CDs, I came across his newest recording, The Ray Bryant Trio: Ray's Tribute to his Piano Friends, and fell in love with it. This is a recording that is not unlike Oscar Peterson's A Tribute to My Friends (Pablo PACD-2310-902-2, 1987) except that Bryant's tribute is to other Jazz pianists. 

The Usual Suspects. Bryant's choice of pianists to honor is no surprise, as are the compositions with which he pays tribute. Not only is the standard fare present, but many are songs already familiar to Bryant's repertoire. The surprise comes with the arrangements and performances. Surprise is really too mild a word. Bryant's treatment of these standard's standards is revelatory. I have not been so delighted with a piano trio treatment of standards since I first heard Gene Harris' performances with his own trio and as part of the Ray Brown Trio. 

That Old Time Religion. I have always favored Gene Harris' big, churchy, bluesey, orchestral sound and gospel influenced style. I came fully to that opinion when Harris emerged as the result of a lot of listening. I had spent a good bit of time and money looking for a pianist with a similar philosophy and sensibility as the late Count Basie without his economy of notes. When I first heard Harris' recording, Tribute to Count Basie (Concord CCD-4337, 1988), I knew I had found that sound I was looking for. Since discovering Harris, I had hoped that I could find a similar style in other piano players. I met with limited success (though I did scare up some fine music while looking). Bobby Timmons was very good, but uneven (and regretfully no longer with us). Monty Alexander is talented but too tropical. Benny Green has enormous technique but is too ornate (Oscar Peterson, also). Finally, I (gratefully) found that Ray Bryant possessed the sound, that sound, and played it with an impressive depth and breadth. He takes the standards included in this collection, and with loving care and precision, shines them through the prism of his soulful, gospel approach to product the best trio recording I have heard in some time. 

The Canon. The disc opens with "C Jam Blues." The piece begins with the straight Ellington introduction with Bryant's playing so big the listener can almost hear the horn section enter. About half way through, the drummer moves from the high hat to the ride cymbal and Bryant starts to swing so hard the listener is in danger of a nosebleed. The performance ends as confidently and proudly as it started. 

This is only the beginning of the standout performances. Bryant goes on to honor Ramsey Lewis with a spry "The "In" Crowd"; Dave Brubeck with a solid "The Duke" (with Brubeck's signature time and tempo orgies), and Horace Silver with a diamond hard bop, "Doodlin'". Vince Guaraldi is recognized with a Linus and Lucyish "Cast Your Fate to the Wind," and Count Basie in a rollicking, "Cute". 

The Heart of the Matter. Three of the remaining songs exist as absolute proof of the sanctity of improvisation and arranging in Jazz. Under Bryant's skillful hand "'Round Midnight" exercises for nine glorious minutes, passing from a straight ballad head into a calypso rainbow, compelled forth by Bryant's smart, two-fisted playing. Absolutely thrilling. Bobby Timmons' "Moanin'" is made even more Pentecostal than the composer's original trio version on This Here is Bobby Timmons. Bryant's left hand guides the choir while his right punctuates his preaching with "Amens" full of conviction. The final standout is Bryant's performance of Weather Report's "Birdland." It was this piece that sold the disc to me. Never having been a huge fan of fusion, my first hearing of Bryant's "Birdland" forced me to replace my vinyl copy of Heavy Weather with CD and to listen to what Joe Zawinul and Jaco Pastorius were really thinking with a better understanding. Bryant's trio reduction is precise and brilliant, not unlike Liszt's piano reductions of the Beethoven Symphonies. "Birdland" illustrates the profound adaptability of jazz to different performance styles. 

The Atomic Factor. Bryant's cohorts, Ray Drummond on Bass and Winard Harper on drums mesh effectively with the leader to produce a swinging cohesive unit. This is no better illustrated than on the last three songs discussed. This trio is less a rhythm section and more an entire orchestra. Tasteful is not how I would describe this trio's playing; necessary or essential might be more appropriate. This trio treated this music with the respect it deserves while transforming it in such a way that the listener can come to a different understanding of what jazz is all about. ~ by C Michael Bailey, AAJ.

JMI Jazz, JMI-7503-2, 1998
Recorded 26^th & 27^th June, 1997 Live At Sound On Sound Studios, New York City 

Musicians:
Ray Bryant - Piano
Ray Drummond - Bass
Winard Harper - Drums 

Tracks:
01. C Jam Blues {Duke Ellington} (5:15)
02. The "In" Crowd {Billy Page} (3:30)
03. The Duke {Dave Brubeck} (7:37)
04. Doodlin' {Horace Silver} (4:56)
05. Cast Your Fate To The Wind {Vince Guaraldi} (3:34)
06. Cute {Neal Hefti, Stanley Styne} (3:39)
07. 'Round Midnight {Thelonious Monk} (9:48)
08. Moanin' {Bobby Timmons} (7:02)
09. Sunshower {Kenny Barron} (5:53)
10. Hi-Fly {Jon Hendricks, Randy Weston} (5:44)
11. Birdland {Josef Zawinul} (5:37) 

Total Time: 62:35

Credits:
Producer - Larry Hathaway
Producer [Assistant] - Denny Prewitt
Engineer - Malcolm Addey
Engineer [Assistant] - Ray Salas
Graphic Design - Lisa Sparks-Glines
Photography - Jeanette Beckman
Creative Director - Sam Gay
Liner Notes - Scott Yanow

Ray Bryant - MCMLXX (1970)

 Despite some commercial tendencies, this 1970 LP (not yet reissued on CD) is better than it looks. Pianist Ray Bryant uplifts such pop material as "Let It Be," "Bridge Over Troubled Waters," "Hey Jude," and "Spinning Wheel." Four selections find Bryant's trio (with electric bassist Chuck Rainey and drummer Jimmy Johnson) augmented by either horns (on "Let It Be") or by strings effectively arranged by Eumir Deodata. The colorful results are not essential but are less dated than one might think. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG.

Timeless

=======

Long overdue, this is the album that propelled Ray Bryant onto the jazz radio charts for weeks (if not months) in 1971, by virtue of the remarkable interpretation of "Unchained Melody". Considering the popularity of the album, and the airplay, it is puzzling that this album has not been reissued before now (as the album title suggests, original -- and only previous -- release was 1970). Recommended to Ray Bryant fans and to piano jazz lovers equally. ~ Geezosaur, Amazon.com.

Atlantic Records, SD 1564, 1970

Rhino Records, WPCR-27092, 2012

Recorded At Atlantic Recording Studios, New York, NY

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Joe Newman - Trumpet (#2)

Garnett Brown - Trombone (#2)

George Dorsey - Alto Saxophone (#2)

Joe Gentle - Tenor Saxophone (#1,3,4)

King Curtis - Tenor Saxophone (#2)

Pepper Adams - Baritone Saxophone (#2)

Leon Cohen - Bass Clarinet (#1,3,4)

Ron Carter - Acoustic Bass (#1,3,4)

Chuck Rainey - Electric Bass

Charles McCracken - Cello (#1,3,4)

Jimmy Johnson - Drums

Emanuel Green, Gene Orloff, Joseph Malignaggi, Julien Barber, Matthew Raimondi,

Noel Dacosta, Paul Gershman, Selwart Clarke, Winston Collymore - Violin (#1,3,4)

Arranger - Arif Mardin (#A2), Eumir Deodato (#1,3,4)

Tracks:

1. Stick With It {Ray Bryant} (5:54)

2. Let It Be {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:02)

3. Bridge Over Troubled Water {Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel} (3:18)

4. Hey Jude {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:53)

5. Shake-A-Lady {Ray Bryant} (2:40)

6. Unchained Melody {Alex North, Hy Zaret} (4:48)

7. My Cherie Amour {Henry Cosby, Sylvia Moy, Stevie Wonder} (4:59)

8. Spinning Wheel {David Clayton-Thomas} (3:39)

Credits:

Producer - Joel Dorn

Recording Engineer - Gene Paul

Recording & Re-Mix Engineer - Lewis Hahn

Photography - Joel Brodsky

Cover, Design - Haig Adishian

Total Time: 34:13

Ray Bryant - Somewhere In France (2000)

Recorded in 1993 before a live audience somewhere in France, this session was sitting around in Ray Bryant's home on a cassette tape that the sound man had handed him after the performance. The artist hadn't had time to listen to it; he hadn't even realized he was being recorded until the performance was over. The session turns out to be a significant milestone that documents this unique pianist. As a solo piano performance, the music is unobstructed. The sound is well done. But what makes this one special is that Bryant's comments to the audience are captured on the recording as well. He was candid and offered considerable insight. The pianist's distinctive bass lines appear in each of the styles he performs here. Whether walking the blues, bouncing a boogie-woogie, forcefully "preaching" a gospel piece, or simply interpreting a lullaby, Bryant's romping, two-hand approach remains unique. His theme song, "Slow Freight," makes a lasting impression. ~ by Jim Santella, AAJ.

Label M, 495701, 2000

Recorded Live in 1993 somewhere in France

Ray Bryant - Piano [Solo]

Tracks:

01. Take The "A" Train {Billy Strayhorn} (4:15)

02. Blues In G {Ray Bryant}/Willow Weep For Me {Ann Ronell} (6:38)

03. Con Alma {Dizzy Gillespie} (7:43)

04. Slow Freight {Ray Bryant, Esmond Edwards} (7:03)

05. Jungletown Jubilee {Lloyd Glenn} (2:58)

06. Django {John Lewis} (6:40)

07. After Hours {Erskine Hawkins, Avery Parrish} (3:24)

08. When I Look In Your Eyes {Xavier Cugat} (2:54)

09. Good Morning Heartache {Ervin Drake, Dan Fisher, Irene Higginbotham} (4:56)

10. In The Back Room {Ray Bryant} (5:26)

11. If I Can Just Make It Into Heaven {Traditional} (3:57)

12. St. Louis Blues {W.C. Handy} (6:57)

13. Until It's Time For You To Go {Buffy Sainte-Marie} (3:58)

Credits:

Producer - Ray Bryant

Producer, Liner Notes - Joel Dorn

Mastering - Gene Paul [DB Plus Studios, NY]

Production Coordination - Alex Karas

Sonic Solutions - Jennifer A. Munson

Cover Art, Cover Design, Graphic Design - Page Simon

Cover Photo - Chuck Stewart

Ray Bryant provided the master tape for this live solo piano CD from a personal archive of over 100 cassettes given to him by various soundboard technicians working his concerts over the years. Bryant was unable to identify the tape more specifically than being recorded "Somewhere in France" during 1993; hence the CD's title. The play list and the arrangements overlap somewhat with Bryant's Alone at Montreux date, though the pianist's first-rate performance and the surprisingly excellent sound from Somewhere in France's humble cassette source make this worth acquiring along with his earlier solo concert CD. Highlights include a boogie-woogie version of "Take the 'A' Train," a choppy delightful "Con Alma," "Jungletown Jubilee" (an obscure tune with obvious gospel roots), a swinging take of John Lewis' "Django," and a savory take of the slow blues "After Hours." Since Bryant turned over more than 40 personal tapes that he personally liked, here's hoping that producer Joel Dorn and Label M will release more music from the pianist's own collection. Very highly recommended. ~ by Ken Dryden, AMG.

Total Time: 66:49

Ray Bryant - Montreux '77 + Concert [MP4]

Ray Bryant's fourth recorded solo piano recital (and second in less than a year) was performed at the 1977 Montreux Jazz Festival and is a particularly well-rounded set. Bryant plays spirituals, blues, swing standards, John Lewis' "Django," and the obscure "Jungle Town Jubilee." His distinctive and soulful style fits well into every setting, making this an easily recommended set that will satisfy most musical tastes. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG.

Pablo Live, 2308 201, 1977

Laser Swing Productions, GB-C25-04-0043-1, 2004

Recorded 13^th July, 1977 Live At Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland

Ray Bryant - Piano [Solo]

Tracks:

A1. Take The "A" Train {Billy Strayhorn} (4:00)

A2. Georgia On My Mind {Hoagy Carmichael, Stuart Gorrell} (4:24)

A3. Jungle Town Jubilee {Lloyd Glenn} (2:51)

A4. If I Could Just Make It To Heaven {Traditional, Arr. Ray Bryant} (3:40)

A5. Django {John Lewis} (4:09)

B1. Blues N° 6 {Ray Bryant} (6:59)

B2. Satin Doll {Billy Strayhorn, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer} (4:00)

B3. Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child {Traditional, Arr. Ray Bryant} (4:20)

B4. St. Louis Blues {W. C. Handy} (5:38)

B5. Things Ain't What They Used To Be {Mercer Ellington, Ted Persons} (4:33)

Credits:

Producer, Cover, Design, Layout - Norman Granz

Cover, Design, Layout - Bill Smith

Remixing - Val Valentin

DVD Rip > WAV > Edit > FLAC

DVD Rip > MP4

Ray Bryant Trio - Potpourri (1981) [vinyl]

Ray Bryant's fifth and final album for Pablo (all are quite worthwhile) features his 1980 trio which also includes bassist Jimmy Rowser and drummer Mickey Roker. It is a pity that this excellent session is not yet available on CD for it is a delight for both bebop and small-group swing fans. Bryant stretches out on eight superior jazz standards with the highlights including Lester Young's "D.B. Blues," "One O'Clock Jump," "In Walked Bud" and "My One And Only Love." Actually, all eight numbers are quite enjoyable, making this one of Ray Bryant's best trio records. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG.

Pablo Records, 2310-860, 1981

Recorded 13^th & 14^th May, 1980 At RCA Recording Studio, New York City

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Jimmy Rowser - Bass

Mickey Roker - Drums

Tracks:

A1. D.B. Blues {King Pleasure, Lester Young} (7:02)

A2. One O'Clock Jump {Count Basie} (3:53)

A3. Milestones {Miles Davis} (4:32)

A4. Undecided {Sydney Robin, Charlie Shavers} (5:32)

B1. In Walked Bud {Thelonious Monk} (4:11)

B2. In A Mellow Tone {Duke Ellington, Milt Gabler} (5:53)

B3. My One And Only Love {Robert Mellin, Guy Wood} (7:05)

B4. Night In Tunisia {Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Paparelli} (4:45)

Credits:

Producer - Norman Granz

Recording Engineer - Bob Simpson

Photography - Phil Stern

Layout & Design - Norman Granz, Sheldon Marks

Liner Notes - Benny Green

Ray Bryant - Sound Ray (1969) [re-rip]

Great work from Ray - and very much in the formula of his best Cadet records! The formula is simple - stick in 2 great original groovers, and fill the record with a few other covers of pop and jazz standards. Thanks to Richard Evans, who produced the sessions for Cadet, the grooves are great on nearly every track - and Ray sounds better here than on any other sides that we remember! In this case the originals are "Stick With It" and "Sound Ray" - both hard piano jams with a great downbeat and a nice dose of funk. Covers include "Song For My Father", "Con Alma", "Look Of Love", and "Scarborough Fair" - all very very nice! © Dusty Groove, Inc.

Cadet Records, LPS 830, 1969

Recorded in June, 1969 at Ter Mar Studios, Chicago, Illinois

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

James Rowser - Bass

Harold White - Drums

Tracks:

A1. A Song For My Father {Horace Silver} (5:24)

A2. Con Alma {Dizzy Gillespie} (4:10)

A3. Scarborough Fair {Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel} (4:39)

A4. Stick With It {Ray Bryant} (5:08)

B1. Broadway {Henri Woode, Teddy McRae, Billy Bird} (5:31)

B2. Li'l Darlin' {Neal Hefti} (5:12)

B3. The Look Of Love {Burt Bacharach, Hal David} (5:30)

B4. Sound Ray {Ray Bryant, Richard Evans} (3:41)

Credits:

Producer - Richard Evans

Arranger - Ray Bryant

Recording Engineer - Dave Purple
Album Design, Cover Photo - Jerry Griffith
Liner Notes - Ed Williams "Maiden Voyage" WLIB/FM, NYC

Ray Bryant - In The Cut (1974) [vinyl>flac]

Recorded in 1974, Ray Bryant's In the Cut is the one recording in his career that stands out from all the others - not necessarily because it is the best thing he ever cut, but because it is unlike anything in his vast oeuvre. Bryant and producer Esmond Edwards set out to make a contemporary album while the great pianist was with Cadet. No solo, no trio, no quartet - this time out, Bryant's In the Cut is recorded with a full-on big band playing everything from contemporary soul tunes (such as the Jacksons' "I'll Be There," which opens this remarkable offering) to his own hard bop blues numbers such as "Cool Struttin'" and the title track to tough line-punchers like Herbie Hancock's "Watermelon Man." The entire Cadet house band was involved in this baby, including Charles Stepney, who did all the horn and, yes, string arrangements (and plays some synth, too). Bryant also plays a fair amount of electric piano here, and is accompanied by, among others, guitarists Jimmy Ponder and John Tropea, bassists Stanley Clarke and Ron Carter, drummer Jimmy Johnson, percussionist and conguero Montego Joe, trumpeters Marvin Stamm and Joe Wilder, and George Marge on tenor, flute, and oboe. The sound of In the Cut is literally startling. Bryant's trademark gait on the piano is immediate from the very opening bars of "I'll Be There." When the horns enter full-force, it's a new sound world - disorienting, yes, especially if you can't let yourself get beyond what Bryant's "normal" m.o. is. But the groove - gentle, soulful, and pronounced - is everywhere in these tracks. ~ Extract by Thom Jurek, AMG.

Cadet Records, CA 50052, 1974

Recorded At Sound Exchange Studios and A&R Studios, New York City

Mastered At Sterling Sound, New York City

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano, Electric Piano

Joe Wilder - Trumpet (#A1,A3-B3)

Marvin Stamm - Trumpet (#A1,A3-B3)

George Marge - Flute, Tenor Saxophone, Oboe (#A1,A3-B3)

Charles Stepney - Synthesizer [Moog] (#A1-A3,B1), Arranger [Strings & Horns]

Jimmy Ponder - Guitar [Soloist] (#A2)

John Tropea - Guitar, Acoustic Guitar (#A2)

Margaret Ross - Harp (#A1,A3-B3)

Richard Davis - Bass (#A1)

Ron Carter - Bass (#A2,A4))

Stanley Clarke - Bass (#A3,B1-B3)

Jimmy Johnson - Drums

Montego Joe - Congas

Alfred Brown, Emanuel Vardi, Julian Barber, Selart Clarke, Theodore Israel - Viola (#A1,A3-B3)

Diana Halprin, Emanuel Green, Harry Glickman, Max Polikoff, Paul Gershman - Violin (#A1,A3-B3)

Tracks:

A1. I'll Be There {Bob West, Hal Davis, Willie Hutch, Berry Gordy, Jr.} (4:59)

A2. Andalusan Nights {Esmond Edwards} (4:45)

A3. Stop, Look & Listen To Your Heart/You Are Everything {Thom Bell, Linda Creed} (6:47)

A4. Cool Struttin' {Ray Bryant} (4:44)

B1. Land Of Make Believe {Chuck Mangione} (5:41)

B2. In The Cut {Ray Bryant} (6:16)

B3. Watermelon Man {Herbie Hancock} (4:53)

Credits:

Producer - Esmond Edwards

Production Supervision - Bob Scerbo

Album Co-ordination - Gwen Williams

Engineer - Skip Juried (Sound Exchange Studios, NYC)

Engineer - Don Hahn (A&R Studios, NYC)

Art Direction - Neil Terk

Photography - P.B. Kaplan

Ray Bryant And His Combo - Dancing The Big Twist (1960) [re-rip]

This Ray Bryant album was released on Columbia Records in 1961. Dancing The Big Twist is basically an album of novelty tunes with a twist theme, including "Twist City," "Twistin' On A Cat's Paw," and "Do That Twist." This session will appeal to those who favour Bryant's dance hit of the era, "MadisonTime."

Columbia Records, CS 8546, 1961

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Harry Edison - Trumpet (#B3)

Joe Newman - Trumpet (#A1-B2,B4)

Pat Jenkins - Trumpet (#A1-B2,B4)

Matthew Gee - Trombone (#A1-B2,B4)

Buddy Tate - Tenor Saxophone (#A1-B2,B4)

Ben Richardson - Baritone Saxophone (#B3)

Jimmy Rowser - Bass (#A1-B2,B4)

Bill Lee - Bass (#B3)

Mickey Roker - Drums (#A1-B2,B4)

Gus Johnson - Drums (#B3)

Ray Barretto - Bongos, Scraper (#B3)

Don Covay - Vocals (#A2)

Tracks:

A1. Twist City {Matthew Gee} (5:44)

A2. Just A Little Bit Of Twist {Don Covay} (2:47)

A3. Big Susie {Ray Bryant} (5:21)

A4. Twist On {Ray Bryant} (4:45)

B1. Twistin' On A Cat's Paw {Buddy Tate} (5:00)

B2. Mo-Lasses {Joe Newman} (5:16)

B3. Fast Twist {Harry Edison, Ray Bryant} (2:16)

B4. Do That Twist [Early In The Morning] {Matthew Gee} (5:32)

Credits:

Producer, Liner Notes - John Hammond

Ray Bryant Combo - Madison Time (1960) [re-rip]

Madison Time is an album recorded by American jazz pianist Ray Bryant recorded in 1959 and 1960 for the Columbia label. The album was released following the success of the Madison dance craze single "The Madison Time" which reached number 30 on the Billboard chart and number 5 on the R&B chart. The single also featured in the soundtrack to the 1988 film Hairspray.

Columbia Records, CL 1476, 1960

Recorded 16^th March, 1959 (#A1,A2); 20^th March, 1960 (#A3,B3,B4) and 12^th July, 1960 (#A4-B2) in New York City

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Harry Edison - Trumpet

Urbie Green - Trombone (#A1,A2)

Benny Morton - Trombone (#A3,B3,B4)

Al Grey - Trombone (#A4,A5,B1,B2)

Buddy Tate - Tenor Saxophone

Tommy Bryant - Bass

Bill English - Drums (#A1,A2)

Jimmy Griffin - Drums (#A3,B3,B4)

Dave Pochonet [Gérard Pochonet] - Drums (#A4,A5,B1,B2)

Eddie Morrison - Caller (#A1,A4,B1)

Tracks:

A1. The Madison Time, Part I {Eddie Morrison, Ray Bryant} (3:01)

A2. The Madison Time, Part II {Eddie Morrison, Ray Bryant} (2:44)

A3. Centerpiece {Harry Edison} (4:14)

A4. Split T, Part I {Ray Bryant} (3:55)

A5. Split T, Part II {Ray Bryant} (5:11)

B1. Hit It!, Part I {Ray Bryant} (3:14)

B2. Hit It!, Part II {Ray Bryant} (4:02)

B3. Young Buddy {Ray Bryant} (3:54)

B4. The Huckle-Buck {Andy Gibson, Roy Alfred} (4:59)

Pat Bowie - Out Of Sight! (1965) [re-rip]

This LP is the first of two albums that Pat Bowie ever made. It was released on Prestige Records in 1965 and features a mighty line-up of jazz artists including: Seldon Powell on Tenor Sax & Flute; Guitarist Kenny Burrell; Ray Bryant on Piano; Milt Hinton on bass and drummer Osie Johnson. Pat performs a broad and vivid selection of tunes and the players get ample opportunity to showcase their talents whilst supporting her dynamic range of soulful vocalisations. Overall a lovely record; it's such a pity she didn't maintain her momentum and evolve her skills beyond just familiar ballads and standards, who knows how celebrated she could have become. Enjoy!

Prestige Records, PR 7385, 1965

Recorded 23^rd, 26^th & 27^th October, 1964 at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Pat Bowie - Vocals

Seldon Powell - Tenor Saxophone, Flute

Kenny Burrell - Guitar

Ray Bryant - Piano

Milt Hinton - Bass

Osie Johnson - Drums

Track Listing:

A1. Get Out Of Town {Cole Porter} (1:59)

A2. Lilac Wine {James H. Shelton} (5:05)

A3. Don't Cha Go 'Way Mad {Al Stillman, Illinois Jacquet, James J. Munday} (2:30)

A4. Will I Find My Love Today {Alex Fogarty, Sydney Shaw} (4:02)

A5. Joey, Joey, Joey {Frank Loesser} (3:05)

B1. Moon And Sand {Alec Wilder, Morty Palitz, William Engvick} (2:29)

B2. The Music That Makes Me Dance {Bob Merrill, Jule Styne} (2:57)

B3. What Is This Thing Called Love {Cole Porter} (3:18)

B4. I'm Afraid The Masquerade Is Over {Allie Wrubel, Herbert Magidson} (4:26)

B5. The Sounds Of The Night {Gerald Fried, Johnny Mercer} (3:08)

B6. I've Got Your Number {Carolyn Leigh, Cy Coleman} (2:46)

Credits:

Producer - Cal Lampley

Recording Engineer - Rudy van Gelder

Liner Notes - Jack McKinney (Jan. 1965)

Ray Bryant - Slow Freight (1966) [re-rip]

A killer album by soul jazz pianist Ray Bryant! The title track, "Slow Freight", is an amazing 10 minute groover that moves at a very slow pace (just like a freight train), and which features some very cool ad-lib talking by Paul Serrano - a pretty groovy touch that really adds a lot to the track! Ray's piano is in the lead, with a sinister soulful groove – and he's backed by his patented two-trumpet rhythm sound, played here by Art Farmer and Snookie Young - blasting away with a tightly vamping approach that's really in the groove. The rest of the record's great too - and other tracks include "The Fox Stalker" and "Return Of The Prodigal Son". One of Ray's best ever! © Dusty Groove, Inc.

Ray Bryant always surrounds himself with pros; he's one and he wants nothing but the finest with him. The end product justifies the means. This is an excellent album. ~ Extract from Liner Notes by E. Herbert.

Cadet Records, LPS 781, 1967

Recorded 8th December, 1966 at RCA Studios in New York City

Personnel:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Art Farmer - Trumpet, Flugelhorn

Snookie Young - Trumpet, Flugelhorn

Richard Davis - Bass

Freddie Waits - Drums

Paul Serrano - Cool Talking (#A1)

Track Listing:

A1. Slow Freight {Ray Bryant, Esmond Edwards} (9:19)

A2. Amen {Traditional} (4:59)

A3. Satin Doll {Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Billy Strayhorn} (6:52)

B1. If You Go Away {Jacques Brel, Rod McKuen} (4:49)

B2. Ah, The Apple Tree {Johnny Mercer, M. Philippe-Gerard, Angele Vannier} (3:34)

B3. The Return Of The Prodigal Son {Harold Ousley} (5:04)

B4. The Fox Stalker {Ray Bryant} (3:35)

Credits:

Producer, Supervisor - Esmond Edwards

Recording Engineer - Ray Hall

Photography, Design - Esmond Edwards

Liner Notes - E. Herbert

Ray Bryant - Up Above The Rock (1968) [re-rip]

The drum break that opens the title track is absolutely killer. With all due respect to Mr. Bryant, drummer Grady Tate is truly the star of this show. Brilliant arranger Richard Evans recorded the drums so loudly; they almost occupy a whole speaker in stereo. Listen to the oddly hyperactive drumming on the nearly five-minute cover of "I Say a Little Prayer". Drums haven't been that aggressive on a Bacharach tune since Love's "My Little Red Book". The majority of the album is solid soul-jazz with the minor-keyed titled track being the clear standout, although similarly minor-keyed sleeper "Five, Six and Seven" is quite excellent as well. I never understand period liner notes on the backs of my records. Invariably, the author is completely oblivious to what the standout tracks are on the album. The author on the back of "Up Above the Rock" informs you that the cover of "Mrs. Robinson" will really blow your mind or some sort of nonsense. Really? Have you even listened to the title track? How do those drums not smack you in the face as soon as you start the record? ~ mag1c_hands

It seems like there’s been a lot of funky and soulful jazz stuff on Cadet around lately. This has been a longtime want as well. Of course, Up Above The Rock starts with some funky drumming by Grady Tate, but the whole song is just a jam even without that opening. Tate gets busy on here a couple of other times and I like the tone of his drums in the mix. Ron Carter can also be found on bass here. The record tends to be blues influenced up beat jazz like Quizas, Quizas, Quizas. Overall, this is a pretty nice jazz album. ~ Soulstrut

Cadet Records, LPS 818, 1968

Recorded September, 1968 at RCA Studios, New York City

Personnel:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Ron Carter - Bass

Grady Tate - Drums

Dobbie Hiques - Flugelhorn, Trumpet

Snookie Young - Flugelhorn, Trumpet (#A1,A3,A4,B3-B5)

Danny Moore - Flugelhorn, Trumpet (#A2,A5,B1,B2)

Track Listing:

A1. Up Above The Rock {Ray Bryant} (3:03)

A2. Dag Nab It {Buddy Johnson} (3:36)

A3. Quizas, Quizas, Quizas {Joe Davis, Osvaldo Farres} (3:21)

A4. If I Were A Carpenter {Tim Hardin} (2:51)

A5. Little Green Apples {Bobby Russell} (3:23)

B1. I Say A Little Prayer {Burt Bacharach, Hal David} (4:52)

B2. After Hours {Avery Parrish, Erskine Hawkins} (3:50)

B3. Where The Wind Blows {Bob James} (4:36)

B4. Five, Six And Seven {Ray Bryant} (3:23)

B5. Mrs. Robinson {Paul Simon} (2:56)

Credits:

Producer - Richard Evans

Supervision - Dick LaPalm

Arranger - Ray Bryant

Engineer - Ray Hall

Ray Bryant - Golden Earrings (1988) [vinyl>flac]

Pianist Ray Bryant's records of the 1980's are consistently enjoyable but sometimes the repertoire could be fresher. Virtually every song on this EmArcy release was recorded earlier by Bryant except possibly "I'm A Fool To Want You." Bryant, bassist Rufus Reid and drummer Freddie Waits explore such numbers as "'Round Midnight," "Misty," Duke Ellington's "What Am I Here For" and Bryant's "Lullabye," but the lack of surprises makes this a rather predictable effort. ~ Scott Yanow, AMG.

EmArcy/Mercury Records, 836 368-1, 1988

Recorded 23^rd, 24^th January & 26^th June, 1988 Power Station, New York, N.Y.

Musicians:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Rufus Reid - Bass

Freddie Waits - Drums

Tracks:

A1. Golden Earrings {Jay Livingston, Ray Evans, Victor Young} (7:18)

A2. I'm A Fool To Want You {Frank Sinatra, Jack Wolf, Joel Herron} (5:32)

A3. 'Round Midnight {Bernie Hanighen, Cootie Williams, Thelonious Monk} (8:03)

A4. I Remember Clifford {Benny Golson} (5:40)

B1. Speak Low {Kurt Weill, Ogden Nash} (8:51)

B2. Misty {Erroll Garner} (6:15)

B3. What Am I Here For {Duke Ellington} (8:20)

B4. Lullabye {Ray Bryant} (2:53)

Credits:

Producer - Kiyoshi Koyama

Recording Engineer - Tom Lazarus

Design - Marlyn Rennie-Bryant

Photography - Daniels & Glionna

Liner Notes - Alain Gerber

CHARLIE SHAVERS - GIRL OF MY DREAMS - 1960 - 24/48 FLAC

1960
Everest SDBR 1070
My Vinyl Rip
Front & Back Covers
DR Value 12

The focus is almost entirely on Shavers' horn, for he is in the spotlight throughout while backed by pianist Ray Bryant (who is very much in a supportive role), bassist Aaron Bell, and drummer Roy Burns.  Although the performances are mostly very concise (nearly all of the selections are under three-minutes long), the trumpeter makes every note count during the consistently exciting program. There definitely isn't much in the way of improvisational jams going on here, but if you like your jazz short and sweet, you'll enjoy getting close with Shavers. Reviewed by Scott Yanow & Michael Brad Richman

01 Girl Of My Dreams /  02 September In The Rain /  03 What Can I Say After I Say I'm Sorry / 04 Lover / 05 I'll Get By / 06 Out Of Nowhere / 07 Dream / 

08 Bye Bye Blackbird / 09 Pennies From Heaven / 10 Frenesi / 

11 Green Eyes / 12 Let's Fall In Love

Arnett Cobb - More Arnett Live At Sandy's [24/48 vinyl rip]

One of six albums recorded at Sandy's Jazz Revival in Beverly, Massachusetts during a two-day period and the second one led by Arnett Cobb has plenty of exciting music. Cobb takes "Smooth Sailing" as his feature, teams up with fellow tenor Buddy Tate on "Go Red Go" and "Flyin' Home #2," and welcomes both Tate and altoist Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson to "Blues for Lester" (a blues version of "Lester Leaps In"). With assistance from pianist Ray Bryant, bassist George Duvivier and drummer Alan Dawson, Cobb's enthusiastic and extroverted tenor wins honors on this jam session-style set. Fortunately all of the music in this LP (and four of the five songs from the first Cobb set) has been reissued on CD.

Arnett Cobb - Live at Sandy's [24/48 vinyl rip]

New 24/48 vinyl rip
Arnett Cobb - Live at Sandy's
Muse 5191 (1978)

01 - Just a Closer Walk With Thee
02 - Blue and Sentimental
03 - On the Sunny Side of the Street
04 - September Song
05 - Broadway

During a two-day period in 1978, Muse Records fully documented a jam session featuring the tenors of Arnett Cobb and Buddy Tate, altoist Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson, pianist Ray Bryant, bassist George Duvivier and drummer Alan Dawson. Six records resulted, two apiece headed by the three saxophonists. On this first LP, (which except for "Broadway" has been reissued on CD), Cobb has four features with the trio (highlighted by "Just Aa Closer Walk with Thee" and "September Song") before welcoming his fellow saxophonists to participate in a rousing version of "Broadway." All of the sets in this rewarding series are recommended to straightahead and mainstream jazz fans.
Review by Scott Yanow

Ray Bryant - The Ray Bryant Touch (1967) [vinyl>flac]

Here’s another classic LP by Ray Bryant on the rare and elusive Cadet label. As usual Ray’s piano playing is simply marvellous as is the backing by his crack rhythm section; being Jimmy Rowser on bass and Rudy Collins on Drums. This album comprises of recordings taken from a live gig at Memory Lane L.A. All the excitement and showmanship of the trio is well and truly on display here. Four of the seven tunes are penned by Bryant; the others match with Soul Jazz appeal. In the end you wish you could have been there to share in the exuberance. Enjoy!

Simple stuff - but very nice! Ray's working here in a live trio setting - ala Ramsey Lewis or Les McCann from the same time - and his work on the album has a similar gutbuckety soul feel to it. The rhythm section of Jimmy Rowser bass and Rudy Collins drums is very tight - and the best cuts kick along with a heavy groove that's a lot more than you'd expect from the setting. Titles include "Little Suzie", "Takin My Ease", "City Tribal Dance", and "Prayer Song". © Dusty Groove, Inc.

Cadet Records, LPS 793, 1967

Recorded 19^th & 20^th May, 1967 Live at Memory Lane, Los Angeles, California

Personnel:

Ray Bryant - Piano

Jimmy Rowser - Bass

Rudy Collins - Drums

Track Listing:

A1. Little Suzie {Ray Bryant} (5:00)

A2. Is All I Ask {Gordon Jenkins} (5:34)

A3. City Tribal Dance {Ray Bryant} (2:27)

A4. Prayer Song This {Ray Bryant} (4:09)

B1. You Keep Me Hangin' On {Lamont Dozier, Brian Holland, Eddie Holland} (5:14)

B2. Talkin' My Ease {Ray Bryant} (5:19)

B3. And I Love Her {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (7:31)

Credits:

Producer - Esmond Edwards

Engineer - Wally Heider

Design [Cover] - Jerry Griffith

Photography [Cover] - Don S. Bornstein

Liner Notes - Jack Springer (WCHB & WCHD, Detroit)

Notes:

Released as LP on Bellaphon/Chess 4019 (Germany, 1967)

and LP on Baybridge ULS-6113-BC (Japan, 1983)