Eric Kloss - First Class Kloss - Grits And Gravy

 Two more from the Prestige years.

"First Class! collects two solid Eric Kloss albums from 1966 and 1967, the first titled Grits and Gravy, the latter First Class Kloss! Over the course of 16 pieces, however, saxophonist Kloss fronts three different groups: a quartet, quintet, and septet. While this never seems disjointed, it does occasionally feel like a best-of package, especially when the female vocal group joins in on pieces like "Slow Hot Wind." This is especially true on the first eight pieces from Grits and Gravy. Bizarre hodgepodges like the title track with its combination of background vocals, a large ensemble, and repetitive funky riffs remind one of a bad '60s movie soundtrack. These tracks are juxtaposed with incredibly edgy work by Kloss, pianist Jaki Byard, bassist Richard Davis, and drummer Alan Dawson. The intensity of "Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise" still sounds fresh 20 years after the fact, and the chemistry among the players is explosive. Luckily, the two bonus tracks, "When I Fall" and "Psychedelicatessen Rag," come from these sessions. Kloss is joined by trumpeter Jimmy Owens, pianist Cedar Walton, bassist Leroy Vinnegar, and drummer Dawson for the last half-dozen tracks, and the work here is uniformly excellent. "The Chasin' Game" and "African Cookbook" take advantage of the duel-horn lineup, and the quintet stretches both of these pieces out for seven minutes. While the overall effect of First Class! is a bit scattered, there's a great deal of excellent music on the disc that's sure to please the Kloss fan." AMG

Ceasar Frazier - Hail Ceasar! (1972) [vinyl>flac]

Hail Ceasar! is the first album to feature organist Ceasar Frazier as a leader and it is very much a monster bit of funky jazz. The LP consists of a number of long tracks that all jam mightily, right up there with the best of the Soul Jazz grooves coming out of the early seventies. The album was released on the rare Eastbound label a jazz subsidiary of Westbound Records. It's overall success is contributed to highly by the recording maestro Rudy van Gelder. Ceasar pulls together a Prestige-styled combo with a group of players well-known and recorded by van Gelder. It includes Houston Person on soulful sax, Cecil Bridgewater blowing away on Trumpet, Melvin Sparks throwing in some heavy licks, Gordon Edwards ramping up the bass, Idris Muhammad smashing away on drums and Buddy Caldwell doing his bit on the congas. As a first this album truly showcases Ceasar grooving hard on the organ and the chosen tracks don't disappoint. Well recommended!

Eastbound Records, EB 9002, 1973

Personnel:

Ceasar Frazier - Organ

Houston Person - Tenor Saxophone

Cecil Bridgewater - Trumpet

Melvin Sparks - Guitar

Gordon Edwards - Bass

Idris Muhammad - Drums

Buddy Caldwell - Congas

Track Listing:

A1. Hicky Burr {Bill Cosby, Quincy Jones} (8:07)

A2. Ellie's Love Theme {Isaac Hayes} (5:03)

A3. See-F {Ceasar Frazier} (4:42)

B1. Hail Ceasar! {Melvin Sparks} (6:27)

B2. Make It With You {David Gates} (4:01)

B3. Runnin' Away {Sylvester Stewart} (4:58)

Credits:

Producer - Bob Porter

Recording Engineer - Rudy Van Gelder

Note:

Typo on file names: Hail Caesar! not Hail Ceasar!

Eric Kloss - One, Two, Free

This is very odd, the jpeg of my cover does not look like this at all, the strange apparent wear is only in the blogger upload! I'm baffled and it keeps doing it!

A quick word about our pal Grumpy - as someone whom has had his links deleted en-mass I can tell you it is quite a shock and no fun at all. Please give him a break and do not ask for restoral of any Hotfile links - it isn't going to happen any time soon.

"Pittsburgh native Eric Kloss (b. 1949) was one of the most distinctive, original voices to emerge on alto sax in the mid-60s. He was only 16 when the first of his eleven Prestige albums was released in 1965. These records featured the cream of the crop of New York musicians and the young Kloss more than held his own with heavyweights like Booker Ervin, Jaki Byard, Chick Corea, Cedar Walton, and most notably, guitarist Pat Martino.

Kloss switched to the Muse label in 1972 and debuted with this outstanding quartet recording, One, Two, Free ; which remains his finest achievement. In a group featuring Martino on guitar and Ron Thomas on electric piano as well as bassist Dave Holland and fellow Pittsburgher Ron Krasinski on drums, Kloss pushes and pulls his group to take chances that explore the outer edges of bop, fusion and even funky pop music.

The 18-minute, three-part title track is clearly influenced by Bitches Brew (on which bassist Holland also participated). But here, like on the surprisingly substantial funk of Carole King's "It Too Late," Kloss's arched sound and searing style move the ostinato vamp in a more avant-garde direction (the way Arthur Blythe later would). Martino gets a notable share of the solo spotlight and never ceases to amaze in his mixture of cool chordal comps and fleet runs up and down the fretboard.

Kloss's beautiful ballad, "Licea," guided by Dave Holland's moody, signature string work, is the jewel of this collection and probably deserves to be better known. Martino waxes lyrically before Kloss enters for a rueful countenance that's worth the price of admission. Even though there's 42 minutes of music here, one wishes creative interaction this good kept on going."

Songs:One, Two, Free Suite: Pt. 1, One, Two, Free; Pt. 2, Elegy; Pt. 3, The Wizard; It's Too Late; Licea.

Players:Eric Kloss: alto sax; Pat Martino: guitar; Ron Thomas: electric piano, tambourine; Dave Holland: bass, electric bass; Ron Krasinski: drums.

Leo Wright: Flute, Sax and Soul

Lest We Forget Vol. 5 / Leo Wright: Flute, Sax and Soul by Poppachubby on Mixcloud

Ricky Ford - Manhattan Plaza [new LP rip}

An old friend has requested this and in the course of doing a new rip, I've discovered that I have an exceptionally good copy! After a little aggressive cleaning...a damn near perfect record! On top of that it really is an enjoyable album.

Ricky Ford - Manhattan Plaza
Muse 5188, 1978, Vinyl LP
Bass – David Friesen, Drums – Dannie Richmond, Trumpet – Oliver Beener, Piano – Jaki Byard, Saxophone [Tenor] – Ricky Ford
Engineer – Rudy Van Gelder, Producer – Richard Seidel

A1 Fadism
A2 Afternoon In New York
A3 Diane's Melody
A4 Ceal's Place
B1 On The Plaza
B2 If You Could See Me Now
B3 Olean Visit

Manhattan Plaza isn't just the name of an album, it refers to an apartment building in Manhattan, not far from Birdland and the Greenwich Village Jazz clubs. It features subsidized housing in a moderately luxurious building for musicians and artists. Mingus lived there (Sue Mingus still does), members of the Mingus band and the Ellington band (Ford qualifies on both counts) have long lived there, and of course Ricky Ford lives there. Sienfeld creator Larry David used to live there and the building community had a major influence in the developement of the show, in particular the character Kramer who was apparently modeled on a neighbor at Manhattan Plaza. Others residents include or have included Dexter Gordon, Jack Walrath, Mike LeDonne, Ray Mantilla, Woody Shaw and many more. The attraction for the musicians is the the rent is a scaled 30% of income no matter what that might be; helps the musicians through the lean times, helps the building when times are good. Are you beginning to see why Ricky named his first Muse date after the place?

The album is a fine straight ahead hard bop session featuring Mingus band mates Jaki Byard and Dannie Richmond, a relatively unknown then Dave Friesen on bass and obscure trumpeter and fellow Manhattan Plaza resident Oscar Beener. Aside from Tad Dameron's If You Could See Me Now, all the tunes are originals from either Ford or Jaki Byard, who plays a strong part in the album. This was the first of ten excellent albums that Ricky did for Muse that still represent some of his strongest work. Somehow the level of success one would have expected from this strong start has never quite materialized..

Eric Kloss - Love And All That Jazz (1966) [vinyl>flac]

Here’s Eric’s 2^nd LP I had tucked away, just as groundbreaking as the 1^st. The session on the 14^th with the “Groove” adds further scope to showcase Eric’s wonderful young talent.

------------------------------------

Great early Eric Kloss record, with a tight organ jazz feel, courtesy of Groove Holmes and Don Patterson. Kloss was totally tight at this point, and less given to the sort of sloppy experimentation that weakened him later. He's backed by two great tight organ jazz groups, and the feel is nice and loungey, but with a good modern edge. Tracks include "Gemini", "Just for Fun-k", and a great version of "Love for Sale". Nice cover too. © 1996-2011, Dusty Groove America, Inc.

This was Eric's second album so we are still talking about a 16 year old, just turning 17 by the second part (Don Patterson) of the sessions. Kloss plays with two different organ trios; on 'The Shadow of Your Smile' and Gemini he is with Richard 'Groove' Holmes, Gene Edwards on guitar and Grady Tate on drums, on the rest of the album the band is Don Patterson, Billy James and Vinny Corrao on guitar. Kloss is impressive on both alto and tenor saxes. Pretty classy soul jazz from a kid!

Prestige Records, PR 7469, 1966

Recorded 14th March (#A3,B3) &  11th April (#A1,A2,A4,B1,B2), 1966
at Rudy Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Eric Kloss - Alto & Tenor Saxophones

Richard "Groove" Holmes - Organ (#A3,B3)

Gene Edwards - Guitar (#A3,B3)

Grady Tate - Drums (#A3,B3)

Don Patterson - Organ (#A1,A2,A4,B1,B2)

Vinny Corrao - Guitar (#A1,A2,A4,B1,B2)

Billy James - Drums (#A1,A2,A4,B1,B2)

Track Listing:

A1. You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To {Cole Porter} (4:56)

A2. Just For Fun-k {Eric Kloss} (5:53)

A3. The Shadow Of Your Smile {Johnny Mandel, Paul Francis Webster} (3:04)

A4. No Blues {Miles Davis} (5:18)

B1. Love For Sale {Cole Porter} (7:38)

B2. I'm Glad There Is You {Jimmy Dorsey, Paul Mertz} (5:06)

B3. Gemini {Jimmy Heath} (6:07)

Credits:

Producer - Cal Lampley

Recording Engineer - Rudy Van Gelder

David Friesen - Other Times-Other Places (1989) [vinyl>flac]

The main reason to acquire this Global Pacific release is for the fine playing of Canadian saxophonist Phil Dwyer, who is heard on tenor and soprano. Otherwise, the music has its moments, particularly the interplay between pianist Denny Zeitlin and bassist David Friesen, and there are two vocals by Flora Purim, but the overall results are not all that memorable. Many of Friesen's dates as a leader tend to be on the sleepy and introspective side, fitting into the genre usually championed by Global Pacific but making the music less interesting than hoped for by jazz fans. ~ Scott Yanow, AMG.

This LP is a much overlooked album by the master bassist David Friesen; featuring Denny Zeitlin, Phil Dwyer, Alan Jones, Airto and Flora Purim. The interplay between Denny Zeitlin is quite magical, highlighted on both Song For My Family and Years Though Time. In many ways the album showcases the amazing saxophone skills of Phil Dwyer. It is an exploration of his ability to work seamlessly alongside Friesen and add depth of scale to Friesen’s variant and elusive compositions. Listen to Tyrone's Dedication, Father's Delight, Our 25th Year, Childhood Walk and Above And Beyond for clarification. Both Alan Jones’ and Airto’s contributions render a solid backing to the majority of the tracks and Flora Purim’s vocals add a distinctive fusion-styled interest to Festival Dance and Song For My Daughter. As always Friesen’s bass sets the mood. His dynamically ranging sound is heard across a broad range of self penned tunes, sharing one with Alan Jones. This LP requires a few listens to truly appreciate its value, something which Scott Yanow may have overlooked in his underrated review.

Global Pacific Records, OZ 45245, 1989

Personnel:

David Friesen - Bass, Acoustic Bass, Keyboards, Mixing, Synthesizer

Phil Dwyer - Soprano & Tenor Saxophones

Denny Zeitlin - Piano

Alan Jones - Drums, Percussion, Synthesizer Bass

Airto Moreira - Percussion

Flora Purim - Vocals (#A1,A3)

Track Listing:

A1. Festival Dance {David Friesen} (4:06)

A2. Tyrone's Dedication {David Friesen, Alan Jones} (3:43)

A3. Song For My Daughter {David Friesen} (2:04)

A4. Father's Delight {David Friesen} (3:14)

A5. Song For My Family {David Friesen} (6:30)

B1. Our 25th Year {David Friesen} (3:58)

B2. Childhood Walk {David Friesen} (4:04)

B3. Years Though Time {David Friesen} (4:18)

B4. Above And Beyond {David Friesen} (4:26)

B5. Song For My Son {David Friesen} (3:04)

Credits:

Producer - David Friesen, Jeff Johnson

Executive Producer - Howard Sapper, Howard Morris, Barklie Henry

Mastering - David Mitson, Joe Gastwirt

Photography - Hiroshi Iwaya

Duke Ellington Orchestra- The Great Paris Concert (2LP rip)

Just the Atlantic LPs ripped from my very clean copy.

"This set came about, in part, as a result of Ellington's signing to Frank Sinatra's Reprise label in November 1962, with the ending of his exclusive contract to Columbia. Six numbers from the three Paris dates were initially edited and released by Reprise as part of the ten-song Duke Ellington's Greatest Hits, but the bulk of the performances from those shows didn't surface until many years later as The Great Paris Concert on two LPs. ... The stuff from The Great Paris Concert is raw and largely unedited, and depicts the full Ellington band in extraordinary form, oozing excitement -- from the saxophone showcase on the opener, "Rockin' in Rhythm," the various sections of the band take flight at different points throughout this set, which includes such contemporary numbers as Ellington's theme music for an all but forgotten television series, The Asphalt Jungle, and excerpts from Such Sweet Thunder . Johnny Hodges is showcased in several solos, most notably on "Suite Thursday," a work whose original studio incarnation he missed appearing on; Cootie Williams ("Tutti for Cootie"), Paul Gonsalves ("Cop Out"), Ray Nance ("Bula"), and Cat Anderson ("Jam with Sam") get their own moments in the spotlight. The editing and equalization on the Reprise tracks is considerably smoother and more obtrusive, in terms of closing fades, from that on the Atlantic release, where the sound is rougher and more realistic, and one wishes that original tapes could have been found and the complete 26 numbers from the Paris shows reassembled together in an integrated fashion." AMG

Personally, I've never been all that crazy about the Reprise material added to the CD version - I first experienced this in exactly THIS version and I still prefer it.

The Capp/Pierce Orchestra - Juggernaut Strikes Again!

Here's a re-up for our Crypt brother Jazzjet.  You're gonna enjoy this one buddy...

Sooooo...I think most everyone is familiar with Nat Pierce.  It's fair to say that at this point in his career, he has mastered the big band genre.  Pierce spent most of his career being (unfairly) criticized as a Basie clone.  This album shows that he is so much more.  Of course, any big band will give The Count a big healthy nod, but I think between his book and the stellar arrangements, Pierce IS his own man.

The material is what really stands out on this one.  Wonderfully varied and fresh, it's clear the band are stoked to be playing these numbers.  Standouts for me are Buck Clayton's Chops, Fingers and Sticks and the Billy Preston ballad, You Are So Beautiful.

The soloing really moves around from chair to chair.  Capp and Pierce clearly wanted everyone to have a voice.  Check the track listing on the back cover for solo details on each tune.  I give the nod to Pete Christlieb and Marshal Royal, they just sound fantastic and spirited.  Of course the ensemble work is wildly tight and inspiring, a real joy to listen to.  Overall a fun and enjoyable side by a seasoned group of players.  Not a typical big band album by any means.

CJ-183 is of course mint.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC...let your backbone slide Cryptheads!!  Enjoy!!

Concord Jazz (CJ-183)
1982
Recorded in Hollywood, CA - Oct/Nov 1981

Frank Capp (drums);  Nat Pierce (piano);  Ernie Andrews (vocals);
Bill Green (soprano & baritone saxophones);
Marshal Royal, Joe Roccisano, Jackie Kelso (alto saxophone);
Pete Christlieb, Bob Cooper, Bob Efford (tenor saxophone);
 Johnny Audino, Frank Szabo, Al Aarons, Warren Luening, Snooky Young, Bill Berry (trumpet);
Alan Kaplan, George Bohanon, Buster Cooper, Mel Wanzo (trombone);
Ray Pohlman (guitar);  Bob Maize (bass).

The Joe Farrell Quartet - Someday

My first attempt at ripping this record was filled with a wicked hiss that eventually lead to a second attempt using a cleaning tool that damaged the rip sonically. This time it hasn't been touched and it played clean...better late than never.

The Joe Farrell Quartet - Someday

Real Time Records March 1982 

Joe Farrell (reeds), George Cables (piano), Tony Dumas (bass) and John Dentz (drums).

Tracks: Fun For One; Blue And Boogie; Around Midnight; Epistrophy; Come Rain Or Come Shine; You Stepped Out Of A Dream; Someday My Prince Will Come; On Green Dolphin Street

I had never seen nor heard of this excellent Joe Farrell date until the day I bought it.This record is of impressive quality, heavy cover and vinyl like an expensive Japanese pressing and when I first played it the music positively leaped out of the speakers at me! I hope I've done a good enough job on the transfer that you get a similar experience.

Joe and George had played together a lot both on record and in clubs by the time this was made and it really shows in the relaxed feel of this session which plays like a club date with tracks where Joe lays out and the trio plays punctuating the set. You almost want to look over your shoulder to see if Joe is at the bar during the trio portions. Farrell was all about no nonsense hard bop by this time in his career, the experiments with funk receding in the rear view mirror.

Rusty Bryant - Soul Liberation (1970) [vinyl>flac]

While his manner (Rusty's) may be mild, his tenor sound is distinctive among all other tenor saxophonists. A heavy sound, imagination and his uniquely soulful delivery are the functional components of his style. Were talent the only criteria for making an album, Rusty would be able to handle the chore by himself but he has chosen an all-star cast involving some of the top recording stars in the business to groove along with him.

Joining him are: Virgil Jones on trumpet, Charlie Earland on Organ, Melvin Sparks on guitar and Idris Muhammad on Drums

Inside this cover are five of our most talented musicians at their best. Together they create a forum of excitement. In the five tunes they capture all that is sought by imaginative listeners. If you are one of those dudes that need to get your soul together you have picked a good place to start. On the other hand if you have yourself wrapped tight then you no doubt are aware of Rusty and the boys. In either case, Soul Liberation is for you. ~ Excerpt from Liner Notes by Martin Douglas.

Prestige Records, PR 7798, 1970

Recorded 15^th June, 1970 at Rudy Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Rusty Bryant - Tenor Sax (#A1,A3-B2), Alto Sax (#A2)

Virgil Jones - Trumpet

Charlie Earland - Organ

Melvin Sparks - Guitar

Idris Muhammad - Drums

Track Listing:

A1. Cold Duck Time {Eddie Harris} (6:21)

A2. The Ballad Of Oren Bliss {Rusty Bryant} (6:00)

A3. Lou-Lou {Charlie Earland} (8:13)

B1. Soul Liberation {Charlie Earland} (11:35)

B2. Freeze-Dried Soul {Rusty Bryant} (7:29)

Credits:

Supervisor - Bob Porter

Recording Engineer - Rudy Van Gelder

Liner Notes - Martin Douglas

The Bee Hive Session - Unissued Tunes, Vol. One

On that day when I yearly mark the passage of time, I received this morning a nice little gift from our old friend deGallo. A peak at these covers should have all of you salivating already. Add to this the anticipation of one our friend's perfect rips, and I have to question why you are still reading this instead of getting to the link. Should some of you require yet further prodding, here is what AMG had to say:

"The Bee Hive label was founded by Jim Neumann in Chicago in 1977 and stayed around for about six years. While based in Chicago, most of their players were based in New York City and virtually all the albums were recorded there. There weren't that many albums released, 16 including this one (with red vinyl). But what was lacking in quantity, was made up in quality. Top ranked jazz artists cut albums for this recording company, some of them are represented on this compilation of takes which didn't make it to a regular album. To the label's credit, they gave their artists lots of time to fully work out their approach to the music. The average playing time per tune is about seven minutes.

Why these tracks never made it to a customary release is puzzling, given the high level of artistic execution. Nick Brignola playing alto instead of baritone combines with Pepper Adams on an authoritative version of "Stablemates" for one. Sal Salvador and Eddie Bert uniting with the now baritone sax playing Brignola on an in depth probe of "On Green Dolphin Street" for another. Then there's the pièce de résistance, the master ballad singer Johnny Hartman's treatment of "Moonlight in Vermont" alone with the guitar of Al Gafa. This album should be remastered for CD just for this performance. It would be a good project for an enterprising and caring record company to gather all the Bee Hive albums and release them on CDs. Depriving jazz lovers of this music is criminal."

Now please DO remember to leave some love for our pal deGallo for this jewel.

Baritone Madness - The Nick Brignola Sextet featuring Pepper Adams

A repost by request.

An exciting Bee Hive contribution from Wid - this has been on a private site in flac but here is a different LP rip for The Crypt that is the first public lossless offering.

Nick Brignola Sextet featuring Pepper Adams - Baritone Madness
Bee Hive Records, 1977

01 - Donna Lee 9:40
02 - Billie's Bounce 11:21
03 - Marmeduke 11:36
04 - Body And Soul 7:07
05 - Alone Together 7:05

Nick Brignola - Baritone Sax
Pepper Adams - Baritone Sax
Ted Curson - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Derek Smith - Piano
Dave Holland - Acoustic Bass
Roy Haynes - Drums

Recorded December 22, 1977 at Blue Rock Studio, New York City.

This album lives up to its title. Nick Brignola is matched up with fellow baritone great Pepper Adams in a sextet also including trumpeter Ted Curson, pianist Derek Smith, bassist Dave Holland and drummer Roy Haynes. The personnel differs throughout the program, with the full group being heard on "Billie's Bounce" and "Marmaduke," Curson sitting out on "Donna Lee," "Body and Soul" being a feature for Brignola, and "Alone Together" showcasing the rhythm section. It is obvious from the song titles that this is very much a bebop jam session date, and quite a few sparks do fly.

(sic) Clean, open, 'live' sound. Highly detailed instruments with 'air' and presence performing in an intimate environment. Very natural sounding. Excellent Bass, Brass with plenty of 'bite' and an open, airy treble. A 3-D soundstage with strong imaging. Wid

KC note: The very first album issued on Bee Hive.

Charles Mingus - Nostalgia In Times Square: The Immortal 1959 Sessions

Hey gang.  Been really busy this last couple of weeks, during which I have been mostly listening to soul music anyhow.  However I have a really amazing 2LP Mingus album for y'all to dig on.

There's not much point in me going on about this one.  If you know anything about jazz, all of the clues are here which point to an amazing set of tunes.  For those not so savvy, let me help you...  Mingus + 1959 + insane cast of talent = one hard swingin joint!!  This is certainly my favorite era of Mingus, one of his greatest collectives.

Not a dud on this 1979 reissue which collected a bunch of "throwaway" tunes from a few different sessions.  The fidelity is wonderful from a minty hunk of vinyl.  Ripped at 24/44.1 and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC... enjoy!!!






Columbia JG-35717
1979

A1 Pedal Point Blues 6:29
A2 GG Train 4:38
A3 Girl Of My Dreams 4:08
A4 Strollin' 4:33
B1 Jelly Roll 6:15
B2 Boogie Stop Shuffle 5:00
B3 Open Letter To Duke 5:50
B4 New Now Know How 4:13

C1 Birdcalls 6:19
C2 Slop 6:43
C3 Things Ain't What They Used To Be 7:37
D1 Pussy Cat Dues 9:15
D2 Song With Orange 6:50
D3 Gunslinging Bird 5:12 

Bass – Charles Mingus
Cello – Maurice Brown (tracks: C2), Seymour Barab (tracks: C2)
Drums – Dannie Richmond
Flute – Jerome Richardson (tracks: B4,)
Piano – Horace Parlan, Nico Bunick (tracks: B4), Roland Hanna (tracks: C2, C3, D2, D3)
Saxophone [Alto] – John Handy, Shafi Hadi
Saxophone [Baritone] – Jerome Richardson (tracks: A4, B4, D2, D3)
Saxophone [Tenor] – Benny Golson (tracks: A4, D2), Booker Ervin
Trombone – Jimmy Knepper, Willie Dennis
Trumpet – Don Ellis (tracks: C2, C3), Richard Williams (tracks: B4, D2, D3)
Vibraphone – Teddy Charles (tracks: B4, D2, D3)

Rusty Bryant - Night Train Now! (1969) [vinyl>flac]

One of the first few funky classics from tenorist Rusty Bryant – a record that showed a whole new side of his talents, thanks to the addition of a rock-solid rhythm section! As the title might imply, there's a bit of Rusty's old "Night Train" sound in spirit here – but the overall sound is much more modern, at least for the late 60s – thanks to the use of a varitone sax on the date, and a group that includes Ivan Boogaloo Joe Jones on guitar, Jimmy Carter (not the president) on Hammond, and Bernard Purdie on drums. Titles include a great funky version of "Night Train", plus some other originals like "Cootie Boogaloo", "Funky Mama", and "Funky Rabbits". © 1996-2013, Dusty Groove, Inc.

An effort very much consistent with producer Bob Porter's Prestige "house" soul-jazz sound, utilizing players who would contribute to many other similar efforts in the late '60s and early '70s, particularly guitarist Joe "Boogaloo" Jones and drummer Bernard Purdie. These beefy, straightforward grooves include a remake of Bryant's arrangement of "Night Train" (one of his most popular recordings in the version he cut for Dot). The writing credit for "Funky Rabbits" is given as "unknown," but it sure sounds a lot to these ears like a retitled version of Ray Charles' "Hallelujah, I Love Her So." ~ Richie Unterberger, AMG.

Prestige Records, PR 7735, 1969

Recorded 6th October, 1969 at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Rusty Bryant - Alto Sax (#B2), Tenor Sax (Varitone)

Boogaloo Joe Jones - Guitar

Jimmy Carter - Organ

Eddie Mathias - Bass [Electric]

Bernard "Pretty" Purdie - Drums

Track Listing:

A1. Cootie Boogaloo {Rusty Bryant, Jimmy Carter} (5:54)

A2. Funky Mama {John Patton} (5:53)

A3. Funky Rabbits {Unknown} (5:34)

B1. Night Train {Jimmy Forrest} (5:22)

B2. With These Hands {Abner Silver, Benny Davis} (4:24)

B3. Home Fries {Rusty Bryant, Jimmy Carter} (5:54)

Credits:

Supervisor - Bob Porter

Recording Engineer - Rudy Van Gelder

Liner Notes - Tom Curry (October, 1969)

Freddie Hubbard - Polar AC (1975) [vinyl>flac]

Trumpeter Freddie Hubbard's sixth and final CTI studio recording has its moments although it is not on the same level as his first three. Hubbard, backed on four of the five songs by a string section arranged by either Don Sebesky or Bob James, is assisted on songs such as "People Make the World Go Round" and "Betcha By Golly, Wow" by flutist Hubert Laws and guitarist George Benson. "Son of Sky Dive" showcases his trumpet with a sextet including Laws and tenor-saxophonist Junior Cook. The music is enjoyable but not essential and this LP has yet to appear on CD. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG.

Released in 1975, this was Hubbard's final release for Creed Taylor's CTI Records. It's a luxuriant, strongly orchestrated, but very accessible piece of jazz. Don Sebesky and Bob James alternate the orchestrations and arrangements. Hubbard's playing is outstanding, at the same time much solo space is allocated to flautist Hubert Laws; added to the mix is guitarist George Benson and George Cables on the Rhodes. A genuine highlight is "People Make the World Go Round" arranged by Bob James. It begins with Airto performing some unusual animal noises and percussion sounds contrasted with flourishes on the Rhodes by Cables. On the title track "Polar AC", Ron Carter throws in some vivacious bass playing whilst Jack DeJohnette is heard working the snares and cymbals against the rich the orchestral arrangements of Don Sebesky; which Hubbard weaves in and around with some amazing solos. There is a lot of pleasure to be found on this LP with further spins. Well Recommended.

CTI Records, CTI 6056, 1975

Recorded at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Freddie Hubbard - Trumpet

Hubert Laws - Flute

George Benson - Guitar (#A1-B1)

Junior Cook - Tenor Saxophone (#B2)

George Cables - Piano (#A2,B2)

Ron Carter - Bass

Alan Rubin, Garnett Brown, Marvin Stamm, Paul Faulise,
Tony Price, Wayne Andre - Brass (#B1)

George Marge, Phil Bodner, Romeo Penque, Wally Kane - Woodwind (#B1)

Billy Cobham - Drums (#B1)

Jack DeJohnette - Drums (#A1)

Lenny White - Drums (#A2, B2)

Airto - Percussion (#A2, A3)

Strings:

Al Brown, Charles McCracken, Harold Kohon, Irving Spice, Matthew Raimondi, Tosha Samaroff (#A1)

David Nadien, Emanuel Green, Manny Vardi, George Ricci, Joe Malin, Paul Gershman (#A1-A3)

Tony Sophos, Charles Libove, Gene Orloff, Harry Lookofsky, Max Ellen, Theodore Israel (#A2,A3)

Track Listing:

A1. Polar AC {Cedar Walton} (6:52)

A2. People Make The World Go Round {Linda Creed, Thomas Bell} (5:48)

A3. Betcha By Golly, Wow {Linda Creed, Thomas Bell} (8:10)

B1. Naturally {Nat Adderley} (5:53)

B2. Son Of Sky Dive {Freddie Hubbard} (13:17)

Credits:

Producer - Creed Taylor

Recording Engineer - Rudy Van Gelder

Arranger - Bob James (#A2,A3), Don Sebesky (#A1, B1)

Jim Pepper - Dakota Song [vinyl rip/FLAC]

Jim Pepper - Dakota Song
Enja 1987 [vinyl rip/FLAC]

1) Three Quarter Gemini
2) What's New
3) Jumping Gemini
4) Dakota Song
5) Mercer Street Blues
6) Commie II Fault
7) It Could Happen To You

I have always been a fan of the passionate tone of the late, great Jim Pepper. I have a decent vinyl copy of this fine album which I am happy to present, but I know that the CD version contained two extra tracks that I've never heard. I know from personal experience that the album which followed this one (The Path) also had two added tracks on the CD and it improved the album, so....anyone?

Dinah Washinghton - A Slick Chick (On The Mellow Side) FLAC LP Rip

Since I have just recently completed a crispy fresh rip of this relatively rare double LP from Unkie Cliff, I thought it might be appreciated if I shared.

The sub-title tells you the story of this one, the focus is Dinah's reign as the queen of the R&B charts. It will depend on your collection as to whether or not this one fills any holes for you. The covers will expand in high rez when double clicked, so you can check to see what's here.

Boogaloo Joe Jones - What It Is (1971) [vinyl>flac]

Using the same personnel as he did on his fifth Prestige album (1970s No Way!), Jones offers more good-natured funk-soul-jazz on this 1971 session. After getting a couple of contemporary pop covers (of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" and Carole King's "I Feel the Earth Move") out of the way, it's mostly Jones originals. On his slower moments, as in "Fadin'" and Sonny Thompson's "Let Them Talk," he shows the influence of straight jazz players such as Wes Montgomery; "What It Is" and "Inside Job" are more cut-to-the-chase funk riffs. Jones has his cult following, but as soul-jazz goes, this is kind of run of the mill: good for background, but not captivating foreground listening. ~ by Richie Unterberger, AMG.

This LP is not as ordinary as suggested. There is some amazing playing on the part of “Boogaloo” and Grover Washington Jr. Jimmy Lewis’ bass gets things pulsating along with the organ of Butch Cornell; many a fine groove is whipped into shape. On “What It Is” he soars. Bernard Purdie on drums hammers away in the background and every once in awhile Buddy Caldwell does his conga thing. A great mix of jazz; funk, blues and pop tunes. Enjoy!

Prestige Records, PR 10035, 1971

Recorded 16^th August, 1971 at Van Gelder Studios, Englewoods Cliffs, New Jersey

Personnel:

Boogaloo Joe Jones - Guitar

Grover Washington Jr. - Tenor Saxophone

Butch Cornell - Organ

Jimmy Lewis - Electric Bass

Bernard Purdie - Drums

Buddy Caldwell - Congas, Bongos

Track Listing:

A1. Ain't No Sunshine {Bill Withers} (5:33)

A2. I Feel The Earth Move {Carole King} (6:10)

A3. Fadin' {Boogaloo Joe Jones} (7:01)

B1. What It Is {Boogaloo Joe Jones} (7:05)

B2. Let Them Talk {Sonny Thompson} (5:49)

B3. Inside Job {Boogaloo Joe Jones} (6:17)

Credits:

Producer - Bob Porter

Recording Engineer - Rudy van Gelder

Art Direction - Tony Lane

Photos - Burt Goldblatt

Mike Nock - Dark & Curious 1990

Back a few years ago when 'bluebird' sent this one to me, he mentioned that the album title was quite appropriate and he is right, this album is a bit dark and curious. This album too seems to have been primarily a New Zealand / Australia release although I saw at least one suggestion that it may have seen a quick Naxos reissue that received some wider distribution. The other members of this quartet are all guys from NZ or Australia and it sounds like this was a working quartet; at least two of these guys show up on later Naxos releases. The reed man Tim Hopkins seems to come out of the generation of guys who are heavily influenced by Michael Brecker. If I heard this blind I would have guessed it was Brecker. I've grown more and more fond of this with each listening. If you are also taken by this one, then I would suggest getting a copy of Ozboppin', a more recent Naxos release that also features Hopkins. Thanks to 'bluebird' for another fine rarity!

The 20th Concord Festival All Stars

Here's a little gem to get your weekend movin the right way.  Some of you will remember the wonderful posts we had at the original Crypt, all taken from the first 300 Concord Jazz sides.  Infact, I had made it a regular feature of the blog - a look at Concord Jazz.  Perhaps with enough positive response and some input from you all, I could be prompted to put that project back on its tracks.  There were scores of titles I never got to, including this one here today.

This album is damn near perfect.  A blowing session of epic proportions, from some real legends.  There's not a single wasted note.  For me, Sweets takes first prize but Gene Harris was in a really amazing stage of his career here.  The fact is that they are all undeniably excellent on this album.

Matching the music is the excellent fidelity - typical Concord.  My copy is in absolute mint condition creating a perfect listening experience.  This is where being a vinyl fan pays off in spades.  We are treated to superb dynamics and tonally splendid analog.  I have never heard the CD but I would be interested if the vinyl egdes it at all.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC, this is a post not to be missed!!!  Enjoy!!


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To celebrate the 20th Concord Jazz Festival, an all-star quintet of veterans was gathered together to play swinging jazz. With trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison, Red Holloway on tenor, pianist Gene Harris, bassist Ray Brown and drummer Jeff Hamilton comprising the group, it is not a surprise that this session is quite successful. Standards and ballads (along with a Ray Brown blues) make up the program and the results are satisfying. - 4.5 / 5.0 - Scott Yanow / AMG

Concord Jazz CJ-366
1989

1 Blues For Sam Nassi
2 Sophisticated Lady
3 Time After Time
4 Bye Bye Blackbird
5 I Wish I Knew
6 I Got It Bad And That Ain't Good
7 Just a Closer Walk With Thee

Red Holloway (tenor saxophone), Harry "Sweets" Edison (trumpet), Gene Harris (piano), Ray Brown (bass), Jeff Hamilton (drums)

Plas Johnson - This Must Be The Plas!

I have a couple of local thrift shops which I check semi regularily for LPs.  As luck would have it I found this little gem for a dollar, in excellent condition at that!!  This will be the first Plas Johnson post here at the Crypt, and I think it's a good one.

Johnson's career has been a storied one.  Originally from N'awlins, him and his brother Ray (RIP Mar/13) moved out west where they became first call session players.  Most notably, Plas was the main sax in Henry Mancini's band for the performance of the Pink Panther Theme.  Now who doesn't know that little ditty??!!?

Over the years Johnson released many great albums, also playing under the pseudonym Johnny Beecher.  "This Must Be The Place" is hardly a classic, but a solid soul jazz album to be sure.  Plas plays alto, tenor and bari on these tracks - all with his relaxed and swingin style.  The tunes are mostly standards with one original put together for the session, "S'il Vous Plait".  Overall we get a light swing with a laidback feel.  In my opinion, Plas Johnson excels at ballads.  I think his style is most convincing when playing this type of tune.  There's plenty of solos on every track, and he's joined by guitar, vibes, piano, organ, bass and drums.

Here's the problem folks...  I can't for the life of me find a definitive personnel list for this session.  The pianist is Paul Smith, we know this as he is mentioned in the liner notes.  Aside from that I can offer a few guess-timates (although his pianist was generally his brother Ray) based on the players he was playing with during this period.  Perhaps if any of you have an account at Tom Lord we can get an answer.  I will be sure to edit this post with the info!!

OK thanks to Daver88 we now have the session info, thanks alot my man.

Aside from that, we have a really great condition hunk of wax here!!  It cleaned up very nicely, but i would guess that it's previous owner was using a poorly aligned needle, or a blunted needle.  This creates the anomolies you hear around the sax.  I digress, overall its a great listen ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC.  Never released on CD as far as I can tell.  Pour yourself a scotch and chill the hell out y'all... enjoy!!!

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Capitol ST-1281
1959

A1 Too Close For Comfort
A2 I Hadn't Anyone Till You
A3 Heart And Soul
A4 Poor Butterfly
A5 Memories Of You
A6 Just One Of Those Things

B1 There Is No Greater Love
B2 If I Had You
B3 My Silent Love
B4 Day In-Day Out
B5 My Old Flame
B6 S'Il Vous Plait

Plas Johnson (as,ts,bs) 

Paul Smith (p) 

Tony Rizzi (g) 

Morty Corb (b) 

Alvin Stoller (dm)

Unknown (vbp)

Unknown (org)

Gene Krupa - Krupa Rocks

I am sure that at this point, you are quite excited to see this cool lookin Krupa side.  Most authors would harness that potential and use the momentum to sell the post as such.  But that's not why you come to the Crypt is it?  To have jazzy smoke blown up your horn??  I didn't think so...

Does Gene Krupa rock?  Hell yeah!!

Does Gene Krupa rock on this album?  Hell yeah no!!!

But don't lose all faith people.  This happens to be a really great little album with a cool yet modern swing.  I can only assume that Granz figured Krupa's name would help to sell the record.  If that wasn't the case then I welcome all suggestions of possible scenarios because Krupa is surely not the leader.  Actually, little known black licorice player Gail Curtis is most certainly the highlight of the album.  As far as Krupa goes, his first solo is at the end of "The Gang That Sang" and no sooner than him grabbing your attention... it's over!!  It's as though Granz and the rest of the band cut him out.  The thing that's really frustrating, is the promise of the two bars he plays over is so immensely great.  After this, we don't really hear from him until "Three Little Words"... track 7!!!  Between this and a small closing solo on Indiana, we get nothing more from one of jazz's great stickmen.

Overall the vibe is laid back with a nice feel.  As I said earlier, Gail Curtis really gives this album it's melodic voice and we get something similar to a Buddy DeFranco record.  Not too bad a similarity.  The back cover includes a really nice write up by Nat Hentoff and is of course, included.  This album is an American pressed mono copy, and was ripped at 24/44.1 wav , dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC.  I would grade the vinyl at only VG. so we do have some fried chicken to contend with but I think it cleaned up really nicely.  Enjoy!!!
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Verve MG V-8276
1957

Bass – Mort Herbert;  Drums – Gene Krupa;  Piano – Teddy Napoleon;  Clarinet – Gail Curtis.

A1The Gang That Sang Heart Of My Heart
A2Gone With The Wind
A3Pick Yourself Up
A4Fire Place Blues
A5But Not For Me

B1Memories Of You
B2Three Little Words
B3Avalon
B4I Only Have Eyes For You
B5Indiana (Back Home Again In Indiana)

Cecil McBee - Alternate Spaces (1977) [vinyl>flac]

I've been listening to some Chico Freeman of late and I thought I'd resurrect this from the old Crypt. Although I prefer the contemporary Enja live recording 'Music From The Source', the calmer, more reflective music on offer here has much to recommend it. It was at one time available on CD, if you would like to own a copy, the last time I checked there was one available on Amazon for $480+...

Review by Scott Yanow:
Bassist Cecil McBee and Chico Freeman (who triples on tenor, soprano and flute) teamed up many times during the late 1970s and '80s. Their collaborations found them playing music that was a spiritual extension on hard bop, adventurous while moving forward. On this LP, they perform five of McBee's originals in a sextet that also includes trumpeter Joe Gardner, the percussive pianist Don Pullen (a major asset to the date), drummer Allen Nelson and percussionist Don Moye. The often melodic but unpredictable music definitely holds one's interest.

01 - Alternate Spaces
02 - Consequence
03 - Come Sunrise
04 - Sorta, Kinda Blue
05 - Expression

Bob Mover - On The Move

Listen carefully.....hear that? The Bluebird is singing once again outside my window as this summer heat wave continues across the entire Cryptverse. Hello my old friend.

For most of us who took the original Xanadu journey, that was our initial introduction to Bob Mover. Well apparently our English Bluebird was impressed enough to seek out more and Hallelujah; this little album is a joy! Not only are we treated to the sparkling alto and soprano of Mr. Mover here, we also get lovely trumpet from Tom Harrell, typically superb piano from my man Mike Nock, fat, round bass tones from George Mraz (particularly well captured), ...need I go on?

This was Mover's first session as a leader and given the artistic success of this and the Xanadu albums as well, it is a bit hard to figure how he remained so obscure, even amongst us Jazz fans.

Phil Woods~Jimmy Cleveland / Thelonius Monk / Max Roach - Europa Jazz [vinyl]

From the danair vinyl collection, sent to me for ripping.

Side One

Phil Woods Jimmy Cleveland Sextet
• Ow! (Gillespie) 6'55"
• There'll Never Be Another You
(Woods) 2'45"
• Penthouse Serenade
(Jason-Burton) 3'45"
• Out Of Nowhere
(Heyman-Green) 8'00"
In «0w!» Phil Woods (alto sax), Jimmy Cleveland (trombone), Francois Jeanneau (tenor sax), George Arvanitas (piano), Luigi Trussardi (bass), Michel Babault (drums). In «There'll Never Be Another You» George Arvanitas (piano), Luigi Trussardi (bass), Michel Babault (drums). In «Penthouse Serenade» Francois Jeanneau (tenor sax), George Arvanitas (piano), Luigi Trussardi (bass), Michel Babault (drums). In «Out Of Nowhere» Phil Woods (alto sax), George Arvanitas (piano), Luigi Trussardi (bass), Michel Babault (drums).
1961

Side Two

Thelonious Monk Quintet
• Blue Monk (Monk) 5'10"
Thad Jones (trumpet), Charlie Rouse (tenor sax), John Ore (bass), Billy Higgins (drums), Thelonious Monk (piano).
NYC, 1957-1958

Max Roach Quintet
• Kardouba (Roach) 12'35"
Tommy Turrentine (trumpet), Julian Priester (trombone), Stanley Turrentine (tenor sax), Bob Boswell (bass), Max Roach (drums).
live in Paris, France, February-March, 1960

Terry Gibbs And His Exciting Big Band - Explosion!

Who would have thought that Terry Gibbs could inspire such Olympian commenting??!!??  Why stop now??  Let's keep this party goin...

Here we find the exact same band, at the exact same venue, The Summit in Hollywood.  That's about where the similarities end.  Yes, Explosion is every bit as exciting, but everything has been elevated beyond where the last one left off.

When I say everything, I'm not exhagerating.  Firstly, the song times are longer which means more space for solos.  Gibbs takes a step back and we get to hear more from the trumpet section, as well as the saxes.  The solos themselves are much more pronounced and longer as well.  The arrangements are much more detailed and complex, but not to the detriment of the song.  Infact this complexity I'm speaking of finds the band jamming in more exciting grooves and feels.  Of course, with so much more in the pot, the level of intensity amongst the players is elevated as well.  This is heard through audible soul calls and shouts of joy.  When I say shouts, I am talkin about some of the fellas screaming in ecstacy - it's awesome!!

Finally, even the recording itself is a step above.  Aside from clarity, there's an immediacy from the music that simply wasn't there on the last post.  A wonderful tonal balance which is best defined by the horn section.  The ensemble work is powerful and punchy, but always warm and thick.  When soloing, we get that biting detail that gives emotional weight to the music.

Overall it's a great testimony to how incredible Gibbs was as a leader, able to get the best out of so many huge talents.  Where "The Exciting Big Band" LP seems more for dancing, on Explosion we get all that plus a show of pure technical prowess.  I know you guys are gonna dig it!!  Contemporary added this to their series, if anyone has it I would love to hear some thoughts on the comparison.  I'm sure the disc is much cleaner, but the music on this LP is really rich.

This Mercury (MG-20704) side is in excellent condition.  As we have discussed how everything is elevated, the noise is no exception.  As always, I have worked as closely as I can without disturbing the tunes.  Overall it comes and goes, mostly getting buried within the signal.  I think it's a real enjoyable listen regardless.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC, the Gibbs fest continues -  at the Crypt!!  Enjoy!!

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Mercury MG-20704

Recorded Live At The Summit, Hollywood, CA

1961

Bass – Buddy Clark
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Pat Moran
Saxophone – Bill Perkins, Charlie Kennedy, Jack Nimitz, Joe Maini, Richie Kamuca
Trombone – Bob Edmondson, Frank Rosolino, Vern Friley
Trumpet – Al Porcino, Conte Candoli, Frank Huggins, Ray Triscari, Stu Williamson
Vibraphone – Terry Gibbs

The Exciting Terry Gibbs Big Band

Ah one! Two! Ah three! FOUR!!

Even something as simple as a count-in oozed with ethusiasm when Terry Gibbs was at the helm.  This is not your typical big band however, and certainly not your typical big band album.  Desert island album?  Pretty damn close.  This one has it all.  An incredible energy, translated from the live performance to us, the listener.  All star line up of players.  The best in composers/arrangers, with originals wrote just for Terry, and by Terry.  To top it all off, this has to be one of the best recorded, live big band shows on record.

This side is quite rare.  It's not that it's impossible to find, but to find one in reasonable condition is another story.  In the late 80's and early 90's, Contemporary began releasing a series of albums with this group.  They changed the name to "The Terry Gibbs Dream Band".   Certainly an appropriate name when one looks at the roster.   But this group is more than just a bunch of star power and hype...much, much more.

They were called the "Exciting" big band for a reason.  This group could do it all, but always with a flare for fun and excitement.  Clearly, with the skill level available, the arrangers went to town.  Bill Holman, Al Cohn, Shorty Rogers and Manny Albam spun these tunes into absolute gold.  Gibbs could lead his group to huge dynamic heights - glorious, crisp brass soaring overtop a driving and pulsing swing.  But he could strip it down to a quiet calm, enough to make you forget that there are 17 players getting ready to pounce!   In my mind, the Gibbs big band are up there with Eckstine and Basie in terms of dynamics. 

Stylistically, the tunes range nicely, from slow pokin' blues, to high flying, dance worthy swing.  Gibbs takes many solos, but always in great taste.  We also hear from the saxes, probably more so than the trumpets which is unusual for a big band.  The best part of this album is it's undeniable live energy, best defined by the soul callin' between Gibbs and the rest of the band.  Audible are the shouts of joy, encouragement and just plain fun the band is clearly having.

I worked really hard on this one guys, and it paid off big time.  I am really proud of the finished product, albeit not perfect.  I think you'll agree, the fidelity is incredible making this a dynamite listen.  This original Verve (V-2151) was ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC, there is little to no noise here folks.  Just 100% swingin jazz...enjoy!!!

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Verve (V-2151)

Recorded Live At The Summit, Hollywood, CA

January, 1961

Bass – Buddy Clark
Drums – Mel Lewis
Piano – Pat Moran
Saxophone – Bill Perkins, Charlie Kennedy, Jack Nimitz, Joe Maini, Richie Kamuca
Trombone – Bob Edmondson, Frank Rosolino, Vern Friley
Trumpet – Al Porcino, Conte Candoli, Frank Huggins, Ray Triscari, Stu Williamson
Vibraphone – Terry Gibbs

Dorothy Ashby - Hip Harp (1958) [vinyl>flac]

Great stuff by the grooviest artist ever to play a harp! Dorothy Ashby had a unique soul jazz harp sound, and although the instrument she used is probably more thought of in terms of bedtime lullabies, she actually makes it swing nicely, and with a soulful sound that draws back to traditions of African stringed instruments. Ashby was part of the same scene as Yusef Lateef, and like Lateef, she managed to use odd instrumentation in new contexts, to get a very unique jazz sound. This set's got harp and flute in the lead, and features the tracks "Pawky", "Charmaine", "Jollity", and "Back Talk". © 1996-2013, Dusty Groove, Inc.

Dorothy Ashby has added to the basic territory that the harp previously occupied. In fusing her sometimes guitar-like, swinging line to the expected harp effects, she has added another step to the instrumental-scope of jazz. ~ Excerpt from Liner Notes by Ira Gitler.

Prestige Records, PR 7140, 1958

Recorded 21^st March, 1958 at Rudy Van Gelder Studio, Hackensack, New Jersey

Personnel:

Dorothy Ashby - Harp

Frank Wess - Flute

Herman Wright - Bass

Art Taylor - Drums

Track Listing:

A1. Pawky {Dorothy Ashby} (7:04)

A2. Moonlight In Vermont {John Blackburn, Karl Suessdorf} (5:15)

A3. Back Talk {Dorothy Ashby} (5:04)

B1. Dancing In The Dark {Howard Dietz, Arthur Schwartz} (4:43)

B2. Charmaine {Lew Pollack, Erno Rapee} (4:02)

B3. Jollity {Dorothy Ashby} (3:36)

B4. There's A Small Hotel {Lorenz Hart, Richard Rodgers} (5:51)

Credits:

Supervisor - Bob Weinstock

Recording Engineer - Rudy van Gelder

Liner Notes - Ira Gitler