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Artist Title UPC Release# Release Description
Monty Alexander Echoes Of Jilly's 013431476924 CCD-4769-2 A swinging tribute to Frank Sinatra... Titled after the New York City club Frank Sinatra frequented in the '60s - where Monty Alexander held his first steady gig in the Big Apple - Monty Alexander's new Concord CD Echoes of Jilly's is a swinging tribute to Ol' Blue Eyes from the pianist who truly knows the man and his music. "...the best tributes are...the most swingingly personal - which brings us to Monty Alexander. Sinatra is far from simply an abstract concept to the Jamaican-born pianist...Alexander enjoyed much of his most important exposure to American musicians and the New York scene while, in effect,working under Sinatra's imprimatur. In these 10 trio selections and three arresting solo statements, Alexander very adroitly uses the classic Sinatra performances as starting points...stressing The Chairman's swinging side." - Will Friedwald, author of Sinatra! The Song Is You (1997, Da Capo Press) FEATURING: Monty Alexander - piano John Patitucci - bass Troy Davis - drums
Monty Alexander Steaming Hot 013431223221 CCD2-2232-2 One of the most distinctive and exhilarating pianists in jazz, Jamaican-born New Yorker, Monty Alexander, plays in a uniquely super-charged style that at once bounces happily on the front edge of the beat while, at the same time, swings deeply and mightily. Whenever Monty is at the helm of a jazz trio, you can bet that the music will be Steaming Hot. Such is the case with these two Alexander gems, Full Steam Ahead (Disc One) and Steamin' (Disc Two). Two different trios are featured, with the undeniably galvanizing common element in both sets being Monty Alexander, whose combustible artistry ignites a sundry collection of tunes and transforms them into timeless jazz piano trio masterpieces."Monty plays...with Tatum's grace, Peterson's richness, Garner's force, Nat Cole's wit."-Fred Bouchard Features performances by top jazz artists, such as MEL TORME, CARMEN McRAE, JOE WILLIAMS, THE MONTGOMERY BROTHERS, and more!
Karrin Allyson Azure-Té 013431464129 CCD-4641-2 on piano: Paul Smith, Laura Caviani; on trumpet & flugelhorn: Stan Kessler, Mike Metheny; on bass: Bob Bowman, Gerlad Spaits; Todd Strait, drums: Rod Fleeman, acoustic guitar; Danny Embrey, electric guitar; Kim Park , alto & tenor saxaphones; Randy Weinstein, harmonica
Kenny Barron Live At Maybeck Recital Hall, Volume 10 013431446620 CCD-4466-2 Kenny Barron has been playing piano out there for two-thirds of his life. This son of Philadelphia began work barely out of high school, partly through his late brother Bill's solicitude. kenny played with homeboy Jimmy Heath and Dizzy Gillespie in his teens, Yusef Lateef and Ron Carter in his thirties, sax-man Bill often. He's also co-founded the Monk-band Sphere and duetted prettily with romantic soul-mate Stan Getz. Nevertheless, opportunities to attack the keyboard all alone are rare. Flying solo challenges a pianist: "It's difficult for me," admits Barron; "this is only my third solo album." Barron approached this recital as a chance to expatiate on personal history; he plays jazz etudes, pieces which focus on specific aspects of the music. Some glance back to acknowledged influences (Art Tatum, T. Monk, and Bud Powell), some explore his present trends. The excursion exposes Barron's deep roots in bebop and flourishing Hispanic traces, and establishes a tenuous balance between relaxation and tension. Of his Maybeck experience, Barron remarks, "It's a great place to play, a great space. Comfortable and intimate. The audience was very receptive; I'd met many of them when I'd visit San Francisco with Ron and Yusef."
David Benoit Orchestral Stories 013431853022 PKD-8530-2 David Benoit is one of the most accomplished pianists, composers and producers in the contemporary jazz arena. But now, with Orchestral Stories, his musical universe has expanded to include this incredible offering of symphonic/orchestral pieces all woven together by the brilliance only this musical genius can do."Most of my fans know me for my contribution to the smooth jazz format. Over the years, within that context, I have experimented with fusing orchestral sounds, R&B grooves, and melodic piano lines. Orchestral Stories best represents how I have evolved as a pianist, composer and conductor. Please sit back and enjoy this musical journey...as I believe Orchestral Stories is music without boundaries." --DAVID BENOIT Features special guests DAVE KOZ and RICK BRAUN, as well as THE CZECH NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA and members of THE ASIA AMERICA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.
Ray Brown Trio Moore Makes 4 013431447726 CCD-4477-2 The members of the Ray Brown Trio (the bassist-leader, pianist Gene Harris and drummer Jeff Hamilton) all grew to love the playing of tenor-saxophonist Ralph Moore when the four were traveling as members of Gene Harris' big band. On this Ray Brown CD, the veteran bassist virtually turned over the entire session to Moore. The quartet performs a variety of veteran standards (including some from the bop era such as Charlie Parker's "Quasimodo" and Dizzy Gillespie's "The Champ") plus Wes Montgomery's "SOS" and Brown's "Ralph's Boogie." Ralph Moore rises to the occasion and shows that, even though his sound is inspired by John Coltrane, he was fully capable of playing tunes from the swing and bop era; Moore sounds delighted to have the Ray Brown Trio as his backup group. This is a fine collaboration that works quite well.
Ray Brown Trio Soular Energy 013431426820 CCD-4268-2 This album is important as an early milestone in pianist Gene Harris' second career. Harris, who had led the popular Three Sounds in the 1960s, had been living in obscurity in Boise, ID, for several years before he was urged by bassist Ray Brown to come to the West Coast for some recording sessions. Harris became a permanent member of Brown's regular trio for quite a few years before launching his own quartet. He had lost none of his technique, soul, or swing in the interim, as he shows throughout this fine release.
Dave Brubeck Moscow Night 013431435327 CCD-4353-2 What made this Moscow night unique? Perhaps it was the realization that the band was, after thirty years of negotiations, cancellations and frustrations, actually on tour in the Soviet Union. This concert was the last of five in Moscow, each one performed to a packed house of enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans. Whatever the reason, the fact is that this recording is documentation of one of the most remarkable nights in the history of the Dave Brubeck Quartet.
Kenny Burrell Lucky So And So 013431495123 CCD-4951-2 Combine a consummate sense of swing, an encyclopedic musical vocabulary and always-excellent taste and you have the one-and-only jazz guitar artistry of the legendary KENNY BURRELL. Returning to the expressive quartet format-featuring Onaje Allan Gumbs (piano), Rufus Reid (bass), and Akira Tana (drums)- Burrell's perfectly nuanced and profound playing reveals new, gleaming facets in even the most familiar jazz standards, including a few Duke Ellington favorites. Kenny also sings on four tracks, demonstrating that his signature lyricism and phrasing are not limited to his masterful guitar playing. Lucky, indeed, are all those who open their ears to KENNY BURRELL's latest- Lucky So and So. FEATURING: Kenny Burrell, guitar, vocals (tracks 4, 5, 8, 10) Onaje Allan Gumbs, keyboards Rufus Reid, bass Akira Tana, drums
Kenny Burrell Stolen Moments 013431212829 CCD2-2128-2 Spend some quiet, stolen moments with jazz guitar legend Kenny Burrell. A master of subtlety, nuance and swing, Burrell is heard in prime form on two of his Concord Jazz classics-Tin Tin Deo (featuring Reggie Johnson and Carl Burnette) and Moon and Sand (featuring John Heard, Roy McCurdy, and Kenneth Nash). With each repeated listening, new facets of Burrell's expressive artistry are revealed, making each of your stolen moments with these Kenny Burrell gems, treasured moments, indeed.
Caribbean Jazz Project New Horizons 013431487821 CCD-4878-2 With the album New Horizons, the Caribbean Jazz Project has been reborn, and the new band boasts a sound as clear and inviting as a white sandy beach disappearing into an azure sea. With its markedly different instrumentation, the new version of CJP has little in common with the old one, unless you count brilliant musicianship, a joyous sound and free flowing rhythmic dexterity coupled with probing improvisation. Marimba and vibes virtuoso Dave Samuels, the sole holdover from the original CJP, knew the concept was too exciting to let it fade away when Paquito D'Rivera and Andy Narell moved on to new projects. While working on a tribute to Cal Tjader, he did some playing with guitar hero Steve Khan, flute master Dave Valentin and veteran Latin jazz bassist John Benitez. The chemistry was so combustible that he realized he just might have found a way to refashion the band along lines he was already contemplating. The sextet's innovative instrumentation also draws upon Cal Tjader's old quintet, which featured Mongo Santamaria and Willie Bobo on percussion. For CJP, Samuels recruited the superb conguero Richie Flores and Venezuelan-born Robert Vilera on timbales. The absence of a trap set is one of the reasons the band's rhythmic textures feel so open and transparent. The band recorded New Horizons after a series of rigorous rehearsals and a four-night stand at Birdland in New York.
Benny Carter & Oscar Peterson Benny Carter Meets Oscar Peterson 025218687027 OJCCD-870-2 A whippersnapper of only 79 when he recorded this album with Oscar Peterson in 1986, Benny Carter continued to astonish the world with his power and creativity. Peterson welcomed Carter's suggestion that they record together after a hiatus of many years. The rhythm section is Peterson's working trio of the mid-1980s, augmented on guitar by Oscar's frequent partner Joe Pass. The repertoire consists of standards and a blues, all converted into expressions of the personalities of these giants. Over the years a great deal has been made of Carter's elegance and polish, his suaveness and urbanity. Urbanity, of course, does not necessarily imply lack of muscle and conviction, both of which run through Carter's work here. He is a match for Peterson in strength and swing. As Cannonball Adderley once said in admiration of Carter, that's a bad old man. with Joe Pass, Dave Young, Martin Drew
Freddy Cole A Circle Of Love 025218967426 FCD-9674-2 "One of my very favorite singers"; Milt Jackson. "His talent and music are like a fine, rare wine."; Benny Golson. "A very, very important voice with a special elegance and quality."; Joe Williams. "He sounds wonderful."; Betty Carter. "Freddy bears a standard and is an inspiration to those of us who love the music."; Abbey Lincoln. with Cyrus Chestnut, Larry Willis, George Mraz, Tom Hubbard, Steve Berrios, Jerry Byrd, Joe Locke, Danny Moore, Don Braden, Joe Ford, Mel Martin Recorded September 26-27, 1993 and December 1995.
Chick Corea Elektric Band To The Stars 013431904328 SCD-9043-2 Restless music pacesetter and multi-Grammy Award-winner, Chick Corea now returns with his genre-bending, all-star Elektric Band, featuring Frank Gambale, Eric Marienthal, John Patitucci, Dave Weckl and guest appearances by Steve Wilson, Pernell Saturnino and Gayle Moran Corea. Featuring all-new Corea compositions inspired by his favorite science fiction novel, To The Stars, Chick and company's rocket-fueled performances are unquestionably out of this world. Reuniting his ground-breaking Elektric Band just in time to celebrate the group's 20th anniversary, Corea is once again heard blazing trails through a new frontier of electrifying, creative music.
Herb Ellis & The Ray Brown Sextet In The Pocket 013431215424 CCD2-2154-2 From note one, this band is swinging and In the Pocket! Amongst the first dozen recordings issued by the then-fledgling Concord Jazz label, these two inspired sextet sessions - co-led by Herb Ellis and Ray Brown - virtually defined the early Concord Jazz sound. Disc One - After You've Gone - captured this amalgamation of all-star jazzmen an unbridled jam, live at the Concord Jazz Festival. Disc Two - Hot Tracks, with Mike Melvoin replacing George Duke in the lineup - documents the hard-swinging stalwarts jamming in an encore session in the recording studio. These two Concord Jazz classics are a must for anyone who likes fun-loving, swinging jazz. Collective personnel: Herb Ellis (guitar), Ray Brown (bass), with Harry "Sweets" Edison (trumpet), Plas Johnson (saxophone), Jake Hanna (drums), George Duke (piano), Mike Melvoin (piano/keyboards) "...a kind of competitive swagger that is seldom captured on record...things happen that have to be played a half dozen times to be believed." - Phil Elwood, San Francisco Examiner
Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau These Cats Can Swing! 013431466925 CCD-4669-2 This is one enjoyable Maynard Ferguson jazz date! His ten-piece Big Bop Nouveau band consists of four trumpets, one trombone, two reeds, and a three-piece rhythm section. The repertoire includes a few swinging pieces, the novelty Ferguson vocal "He Can't Swing," Wallace singing on the R&B-ish "I Don't Want to Be a Hoochi Coochie Man No Mo'," the exotic "Sweet Baba Suite" (which reflects Ferguson's interest in Indian music), and "It's the Gospel Truth." This is a well-rounded set showing that Maynard Ferguson was still a strong force to contend with in the mid-'90s.
Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau Brass Attitude 013431484820 CCD-4848-2 Ever there was a man with Brass Attitude, it's legendary trumpet phenomenon Maynard Ferguson. And there's no little big band on this planet with more Brass Attitude in each chair than Maynard's tight-knit, swinging ensemble Big Bop Nouveau. Together, on their new album titled (you guessed it) Brass Attitude, Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau redefine standards -- and set some new ones -- with breathtaking, attitude-filled performances of challenging new arrangements of jazz standards and exciting new compositions. FEATURING: Maynard Ferguson - trumpet, flugelhorn, firebird (valve and slide trumpet) Frank Greene - trumpet Carl Fischer - trumpet, superbone Wayne Bergeron - trumpet Tom Garling - trombone, superbone Matt Wallace - tenor & alto saxophones Sal Giorgianni - tenor & alto saxophones Dave Throckmorton - drums Ron Oswanski - piano & keyboards Paul Thompson - electric & acoustic bass Denis DiBlasio - (special alumni guest) vocals & baritone saxophone
Robben Ford Blue Moon 013431211228 CCD-2112-2 Guitarist and vocalist Robben Ford is back with a compelling, rock- and soul-infused album of his signature blues. One of the most awe-inspiring guitarists of our day, Robben crosses musical genres: from blues to jazz to rock with as much ease as a fit marathon runner crosses the street. And still the power, soul, groove and essence of the blues is always at the unshakable core of his distinctive music. The definitive result is Blue Moon - a colorful, expansive, and uniquely Robben Ford album, in which the master guitarist/vocalist/songwriter draws from his broad palette of musical hues to create the richest, deepest shades of blue.Featuring: Robben Ford, Guitar, wurlitzer electric piano, piano, vocals; Russell Ferrante, piano; Neil Larsen, organ, piano; Tom Brechtlein, drums; Vinnie Colaiuta, drums; Roscoe Beck, Zeta bass, 5-string bass; Jimmy Earl, electric bass; Lee R. Thornburg, trumpet, trombone; Dave "Woody" Woodford, tenor sax, baritone sax; Julie Christensen, vocal on "Make Me Your Only One"; Louis Pardini, background vocal on "Don't Deny Your Love"
Dizzy Gillespie Big 7 At The Montreux Jazz Festival 1975 025218673921 OJCCD-739-2 This Dizzy Gillespie exercise in arson was performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1975. Surrounding himself with colleagues whom he could trust to revel in the heat of tempos beyond the ignition point, the trumpeter and nonpareil leader set a furious pace on "Lover, Come Back to Me" and "Cherokee." Johnny Griffin, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Milt Jackson, and a rhythm section headed by Tommy Flanagan had no trouble meeting the challenge. "What's New," stately and heartfelt, provides a ballad contrast. with Milt Jackson, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Johnny Griffin, Tommy Flanagan, Niels-Henning 0rsted Pedersen, Mickey Roker
Benny Golson Benny Golson's New York Scene 025218616423 OJCCD-164-2 Benny Golson rose to prominence in the 1950s, not only as a tenor saxophonist of the warm-toned traditional school, but also as a composer, many of whose works have become jazz standards. After a long and successful career as a composer for television on the West Coast, Golson has returned to New York, where he is once again, an important tenor soloist and co-leader (with Art Farmer) of the Jazztet. These sessions, played by a quintet and a nine-piece band, are among the most representative examples of his early work. Of special interest is one of his own versions of the tune that has since been recorded by countless groups all over the world, "Whisper Not." with Art Farmer, Wynton Kelly, Paul Chambers, Charles Persip, Gigi Gryce, Sahib Shihab, James Cleveland, Julius Watkins
Dexter Gordon The Art Of The Ballad 025218310925 PRCD-11009-2 with Roy Brooks, Kenny Clarke, Stanley Clarke, Bob Cranshaw, Alan Dawson, Tommy Flanagan, Barry Harris, Hampton Hawes, Louis Hayes, Albert"Tootie" Heath, Billy Higgins, Oliver Jackson, Hank Jones, Sam Jones, Thad Jones, Wynton Kelly, Junior Mance, Larry Ridley, Martin Rivera, Cedar Walton, Buster Williams Recorded between 1969 & 1973.
Jim Hall Ballad Essentials 013431490425 CCD-4904-2 When the subject of Jim Hall's guitar playing comes up, one of the adjectives that you inevitably hear is "lyrical." Ballads have long been one of Hall's strong points, which is why he was a logical choice for Concord Jazz's Ballad Essentials series. Released in 2000, this collection spans 1981-1989 and draws on five Concord dates, three as a leader (Circle in 1981, Jim Hall's Three in 1986, and All Across the City in 1989) and two of which are duets (First Edition with pianist George Shearing in 1981 and Live at Village West with acoustic bassist Ron Carter in 1982).
Jim Hall Storyteller 013431213123 CCD2-2131-2 One of the most lyrical, harmonically sophisticated and melodically inventive guitarists in jazz, Jim Hall - with guitar in hand - is never caught without a compelling story to tell. Here, the master storyteller is spotlighted in a special 2-CD collection featuring two of his finest Concord Jazz outings - the subtle-yet-deep Circles (featuring Don Thompson, Rufus Reid, and Terry Clarke), and the expansive and timeless All Across The City (featuring Gil Goldstein, Steve LaSpina, and Terry Clarke). Produced by Carl E. Jefferson Jim Hall: guitar Don Thompson: piano and bass disc 1 Terry Clarke: drums disc 1 Rufus Reid: bass on "(All of a Sudden) My Heart Sings" disc 1 Gil Goldstein: keyboards disc 2 Steve La Spina: bass disc 2 Terry Clarke: drums disc 2
Milt Jackson, Ray Brown, Mickey Roker & Joe Pass Quadrant 025218649827 OJCCD-498-2 Comparisons inevitably follow when Milt Jackson is heard in a quartet that isn't the Modern Jazz Quartet, but Quadrant is truly something else. Joe Pass is in the pivotal chair, and his driving attack and assertive spirit create a singular group personality beyond the vibes/guitarist/no-piano mix. Compare Pass's original"Concorde" to John Lewis's MJQ standard of the same name for a study in contrast, or hear how instinctively Jackson approaches the"down" medium tempo of"Lady Be Good" in this context. Needless to say, Ray Brown and Mickey Roker prove to be the ideal rhythm section, as Quadrant always pursues the right angle.
Illinois Jacquet The Blues: That's Me! 025218661423 OJCCD-614-2 This exposition of the passion, swing, and heart that radiate from the soul of Illinois Jacquet brought the tenor saxophone master together with an older musician equally steeped in the blues tradition and three younger men whose rhythm section work seemed custom-made for the two veterans. Jacquet, Tiny Grimes, Wynton Kelly, Buster Williams, and Oliver Jackson demonstrated that when the common language of jazz is shared, generational differences evaporate. In addition to offering Jacquet's lusty tenor, this album unveiled one of the major musical surprises of the 1960s, his mastery of the bassoon, an instrument well up on the list of unlikely jazz instruments. Jacquet's "'Round Midnight" on bassoon is one of the highlights of the recording. with Wynton Kelly, Tiny Grimes, Buster Williams, Oliver Jackson
Etta Jones Lonely And Blue 025218670227 OJCCD-702-2 For the last decade or so of her life, Etta Jones (1928-2001) was able to finally sustain the deserved popularity she attracted briefly with her series of Prestige albums in the early Sixties. Her voice was more youthful then, although she displayed enough seasoning to carry off a program heavily laced with torch songs; and the influence of Billie Holiday was more overt, particularly when she chose such Lady Day gems as "I'm Pulling Through" and "Travelin' Light." The supporting band features underrated pianist Patti Bown, who was working with Quincy Jones's big band at the time, plus Budd Johnson's tenor on several tracks. with Patti Bown, Wally Richardson, George Duvivier, Art Davis, Budd Johnson, Ed Shaugnessy
Shelly Manne & His Friends At The Black Hawk, Vol. 2 025218665728 OJCCD-657-2 The five volumes of recordings made by Shelly Manne & His Men at the Black Hawk in San Francisco in 1959 found his quintet in remarkable fettle and inspired by the inclusion of visiting pianist Victor Feldman, Feldman, Manne, and bassist Monty Budwig comprised a dream rhythm section. Tenor saxophonist Richie Kamuca and trumpeter Joe Gordon were at their best, tight together in the ensemble and particularly inventive in their solos. Manne's was one of the groups that gave the lie to the belief that West Coast jazz was effete and bloodless. These robust performances of Benny Golson's"Step Lightly," Charlie Mariano's"Vamp's Blues," and the classic"What's New" stand among the best of the period. with Joe Gordon, Richie Kamuca, Victor Feldman, Monty Budwig
Shelly Manne And His Men At The Black Hawk, Vol. 1 025218665629 OJCCD-656-2 Among Shelly Manne's recordings, the five volumes that came out of three nights in 1959 at San Francisco's Black Hawk occupy a special place in his discography. The drummer recorded copiously during the Fifties with the band he called Shelly Manne & His Men, but this was the first time they had been captured on tape in a club, with commercial release in mind. His Men were joined for the Black Hawk dates by pianist Victor Feldman, and the group caught fire in a series of performances so consistent that Contemporary released not just the one album contemplated, but four and, ultimately, a fifth, Volume 1 contains the remarkable waltz,"Blue Daniel," and a blistering performance of Tadd Dameron's"Our Delight." with Joe Gordon, Richie Kamuca, Victor Feldman, Monty Budwig
Eric Marienthal Got You Covered! 013431853329 PKD-8533-2 Eric Marienthal, one of contemporary jazz's most popular and innovative performers, is back with a new album entitled Got You Covered. This exciting collection of some of Eric's favorite classic songs-including "New York State of Mind," "Stand By Me," "You've Got a Friend," and "Moody's Mood for Love"-demonstrates the incredible interpretive skills of this great saxman. Featuring Russ Freeman, Russell Ferrante, Peter Erskine, and a special collaboration with famed pianist Chick Corea, Got You Covered uncovers the soulful, passionate sound of Eric Marienthal.
Pat Martino Desperado 025218639729 OJCCD-397-2 Having apprenticed since the age of 15 with Red Holloway, Jack McDuff, Willis Jackson, Sonny Stitt, and John Handy, guitarist Pat Martino went out on his own in the late 1960s. By early 1970, when this album was made, he was turning the heads of other guitarists and was recognized as a master of the instrument. Although much of his early experience was in relatively simple and direct blues-based music, Martino explored more complex forms as well. Both aspects are heard here from Martino's 12-string guitar in a band of fellow Philadelphians that includes the swinging and resourceful drummer Sherman Ferguson. with Eric Kloss, Eddie Green, Tyrone Brown, Sherman Ferguson
Fred McDowell Long Way From Home 025218053525 OBCCD-535-2 Recorded November 12, 1966.
Carmen McRae With George Shearing Two For The Road 013431412823 CCD-4128-2 The only recorded meeting between George Shearing and Carmen McRae took place in 1980 for Concord, and it's a shame there wasn't a follow-up date. Although the pianist's backing of singers on recordings is relatively infrequent, he always provides them with richly textured and inspired accompaniment. McRae is in great voice on this date, bringing out the best in songs with her emotional and dramatic interpretations. Most of the works on this CD are gems from the Great American Songbook, including a jaunty take of "Gentleman Friend," which has some lively scatting, and the moving ballad "If I Should Lose You." This topnotch duo date should be of great interest to fans of either Shearing or McRae.
Gerry Mulligan Midas Touch: Live In Berlin 013431216926 CCD-2169-2 A pioneer of the cool, West Coast style of jazz, Gerry Mulligan's unique ability to play and improvise on the baritone saxophone with dexterity, fluidity, inventiveness and a beautiful, light tone, made him arguably the greatest jazz artist ever to lay hands on the big, difficult-to-master instrument. In this never-before-released recording, the saxophonist with the Midas touch is captured live in Berlin, in what would be the last European tour of his life. It's an inspired concert that finds the indefatigable Mulligan swinging in his own, inimitable way throughout. An added special treat is the appearance of fellow West Coast Jazz legend, Dave Brubeck, who joins Mulligan in a rare, intimate, duet performance of "These Foolish Things."
Joe Pass Appassionato 025218094627 PACD-2310-946-2 with John Pisano, Jim Hughart, Colin Bailey Recorded August 9-11, 1990.
Joe Pass & Paulinho da Costa Tudo Bem! 025218668521 OJCCD-685-2 Having been fascinated by contemporary Brazilian music during a playing trip to Brazil, after his return Joe Pass organized the session that resulted in Tudo Bem! Fortunately, the great percussionist Paulinho da Costa had moved to the United States and brought with him bassist Octavio Bailly and drummer Claudio Slon. Oscar Castro-Neves, the distinguished guitarist and composer, was also available. Like Pass, pianist Don Grusin had a special feeling for samba. With these fine musicians and a slate of tunes by Jobim, Bonfa, Deodato, Castro-Neves, and other Brazilian composers, Pass recorded one of his warmest and happiest albums. with Don Grusin, Oscar Castro-Neves, Octavio Bailly, Claudio Slon
Art Pepper No Limit 025218641128 OJCCD-411-2 No longer making a comeback, in 1977 Art Pepper had firmly reinstalled himself on the jazz scene. He was playing with all of his old facility and a new depth of expression born out of the pain of his ruinous years and the joy of his personal and artistic rebirth. No Limit found Pepper once again in the company of the rapidly developing young pianist George Cables, who had been so important to the success of The Trip (OJC-410). Pepper and Cables were to make ten more albums together over the next few years. Drummer Carl Burnett, another of Pepper's favorites, was on the date along with the powerful bassist Tony Dumas. The session included a moving performance of "Ballad of the Sad Young Men" and the Latin abandon of "Mambo de la Pinta," with Pepper overdubbing a wild chase on tenor and alto. with George Cables, Tony Dumas, Carl Burnett
Art Pepper One September Afternoon 025218667821 OJCCD-678-2 For several months prior to this session, Art had been preparing for his dream-come-true strings date, Winter Moon. Then he did it, stunningly and quickly–in two days. On the third day, satisfied and happy, the band returned to the studio, sans strings, and jammed. Stanley Cowell and Cecil McBee, master musicians, had proved their empathy with Art about a year earlier when they'd recorded the critically acclaimed Art Pepper Today. Carl Burnett, Art's favorite drummer, was his steady sideman, and the sublime Howard Roberts, a bonus holdover from the string session, sat in on two tunes. This is a deft, pretty, gleeful album. The pressure was off. This was the party. with Stanley Cowell, Howard Roberts, Cecil McBee, Carl Burnett
Art Pepper The Way It Was! 025218638920 OJCCD-389-2 When The Way It Was! was issued in 1972, Art Pepper's fans were surprised and pleased to discover that 16 years before, he had recorded with the enigmatic, underrated tenor saxophonist Warne Marsh. The four pieces on which they collaborated were among both men's best work of the mid-Fifties. To complete the album Contemporary added previously unissued tracks from Pepper's famous encounters with two great Miles Davis rhythm sections and a 1960 Pepper performance of "Autumn Leaves" that he regarded as one of his best solos. Pepper's own liner notes present his typically trenchant evaluations of the music and the players. with Warne Marsh, Ronnie Ball, Ben Tucker, Gary Frommer, Red Garland, Paul Chambers, Philly Joe Jones, Dolo Coker, Jimmy Bond, Frank Butler, Wynton Kelly, Jimmy Cobb
Oscar Peterson Oscar Peterson Live! 025218094023 PACD-2310-940-2 with Joe Pass, David Young, Martin Drew Recorded November 12 & 14, 1986.
Bud Powell Paris Sessions 025218097222 PACD-2310-972-2 with Kenny Clarke, Kansas Fields, Jacques Gervais, Dizzy Gillespie, Johnny Griffin, Guy Hayat, Pierre Michelot, Gilbert Rovere, Zoot Sims, Barney Wilen Recorded in Paris between 1957 and 1964.
Django Reinhardt Quintet Of The Hot Club Of France - First Recordings! 025218189521 OJCCD-1895-2 The earliest of these recordings from the mid-1930s capture Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli shortly after they formed the Quintet of the Hot Club of France. When Reinhardt performances like "Dinah" and "Oh Lady, Be Good" were released, musicians and laymen alike were astounded by this virtuoso French gypsy's mastery of jazz, an idiom he had absorbed by listening to records. Soon, Reinhardt was radiating influence as his recordings made their way around the world and reached the ears of musicians in the land whose music had inspired him. It was the first indication of a truth not fully borne out for decades, that jazz comes as much from within the player as from the player's origins and environment. Reinhardt only visited the United States once, late in his career, but he was a giant of jazz from the beginning. with Stephane Grappelli, Joseph Reinhardt, Roger Chaput, Pierre Ferret, Alphonse Cox, Pierre Allier, Arthur Briggs, Eugene D'Hellemmes, Alix Combelle, Louis Vola
The Rippingtons Featuring Russ Freeman Life In The Tropics 013431850021 PKD-8500-2 The Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman, one of the supergroups of contemporary jazz, deliver one of their most innovative and creatively diverse projects, Life In The Tropics. A perennial best seller, The Rippingtons' Life In The Tropics is guaranteed to heat up the airwaves as it features an all-star lineup including: Bob James, Dave Koz, Peter White, Paul Taylor, Eric Marienthal, guest vocals by Howard Hewett and new Latin sensation, Daisy Lourdes Villa. FEATURING RUSS FREEMAN-guitar, bass, keyboards KIM STONE-bass DAVE KOCHANSKI-keyboards RAMON YSLAS-percussion DAVE HOOPER-drums With special guests: GARY BROWN, RAMON FLORES, GARY GRANT, BILL HELLER, HOWARD HEWETT, JERRY HEY, BOB JAMES, DAVE KOZ, ERIC MARIENTHAL, BILL REICHENBACH, MICHAEL ANGELO SAULSBERRY, PAUL TAYLOR, DAISY LOURDES VILLA, PETER WHITE
The Rippingtons Featuring Russ Freeman Wild Card 013431852728 PKD-8527-2 The Rippingtons, featuring Russ Feeman, are insuring their bets with the release of one of their most innovative and creatively diverse projects, Wild Card. Long considered one of the supergroups of contemporary jazz, The Rippingtons-in the tradition of their wildly popular Life In the Tropics CD-combine their signature sound with a Latin and R&B flair. Also spotlighting some incredible guest artists-Albita, Willie Chirino, Chante Moore and Grammy Award winner Ozomatli-The Rippingtons have clearly played a winning hand with Wild Card.
Poncho Sanchez Afro-Cuban Fantasy 013431484721 CCD-4847-2 The latest release from one of the world's most relentlessly exciting Latin jazz bandleaders; finds Poncho Sanchez turning Afro-Cuban Fantasy into a full-blown, full-color, vibrant sonic reality, as he seamlessly merges jazz harmonies, melodies and improvisation with his always irresistably danceable Afro-Cuban rhythms. It's become a welcome tradition for Poncho to feature a special guest artist on his recordings. And this time the master conguero shares the spotlight with a very special guest indeed - vocal diva. Dianne Reeves, who ignites sparks with her smoldering vocal stylings on three selections. One of Ponchos most fully realized and exciting recordings to date, Afro-Cuban Fantasy is an album that will have you dancing and singing. FEATURING: Poncho Sanchez - congas, vocals, percussion; David Torres - piano; Ramon Banda - timbales, trap drums;Tony Banda - bass; Jose "Papo" Rodriguez - bongos, percussion; Sal Cracchiolo - trumpet, flugelhorn; Scott Martin - alto, tenor & baritone saxophone, flute; Francisco Torres - trombone; Special Guest: Dianne Reeves, vocals (Tracks 2, 5 & 11)
Poncho Sanchez Soul Sauce: Memories Of Cal Tjader 013431466222 CCD-4662-2 On Soul Sauce, Poncho Sanchez pays tribute to his late boss and hero vibraphonist Cal Tjader. Ruben Estrada of the Estrada Brothers (who sounds remarkably close to Tjader on vibes) was added to Sanchez' octet for the special project. Among the highlights are "Soul Sauce," "Morning," and "Poinciana Cha Cha." Solos are taken by trumpeter Stan Martin, trombonist Alex Henderson, and Scott Martin on reeds, but Estrada often takes honors.
George Shearing Duets 013431212126 CCD-2121-2 The same qualities that have made George Shearing one of the most distinctive solo pianists in jazz have also made him the ideal duet partner. Quite simply, George Shearing's piano artistry embodies the ultimate combination of impeccable taste, originality, inventiveness, versatility, elegance and swing. During the decade of the '80s, Shearing recorded numerous acclaimed sets on the Concord Jazz label, including several now-classic duet collaborations. Collected here are some of the very best of these duet performances, spotlighting George Shearing's jazz piano genius in collaboration with some of jazz's finest talents - Ernestine Anderson, Jim Hall, Hank Jones, Marian McPartland, Carmen McRae, and Mel Torme. Featuring: George Shearing, Ernestine Anderson, Jim Hall, Hank Jones, Marian McPartland, Carmen McRae, Mel Torme
George Shearing & The Montgomery Brothers George Shearing & The Montgomery Brothers 025218604024 OJCCD-040-2 For Wes Montgomery, a principal benefit of his rise to fame was that it allowed him to work at times with his two brothers. This tight-knit family unit had many fans, but none more enthusiastic than Shearing, who sat in whenever possible and eventually was able to join them on record. The result was this once-in-a-lifetime blending of the differing approaches of two master melodists. with Wes Montgomery, Buddy Montgomery, Monk Montgomery, Walter Perkins, Armando Peraza, Ricardo Chimelis
Jean "Toots" Thielemans Only Trust Your Heart 013431435525 CCD-4355-2 This recording was no casual venture for Toots Thielemans. He surrounded himself with musicians with whom he had been working regularly and in who he had complete confidence. Fred Hersch, who had been close to Toots musically for six years, took on multiple roles as pianist, producer and arranger. Fred had been with Toots on all his American gigs for five years and they had played together in Europe and in Brazil. For Toots, the key to their affinity was the music of the late Bill Evans. "I respond to Bill Evans' melodic and harmonic climate," Toots explained. "Fred grew up on the music of Bill Evans and when we're playing together we have a telepathy, a dialogue between soloist and accompanist. He allows me to hold a wrong note and he will know how to handle it." Toots' Bill Evans association extended to bassist Marc Johnson, who was in Evans' group at the time of his death. Johnson and drummer Joey Baron had been playing regularly with Toots for four years. (Harvie Swartz, who had long associations with Sheila Jordan and Steve Kuhn, subbed for Johnson on some of these sessions). One of Hersch's key objectives, in his role as producer, as freshness of performance. So, in most cases, these are first takes. "After several takes on the same tune, you tend to be trying too hard," Hersch pointed out. "On the first take, when Toots is finding his way, he is apt to be more spontaneous." The goal of all this was, as Toots said, to make a recording "that comes out as a good musical photograph of me today -- both artistically and what I stand for lyrically."
Dave Weckl Band Synergy 013431902225 SCD-9022-2 A drummer's drummer, a musician's musician, and a bandleader's bandleader - all aptly describe the talents of Dave Weckl, and never more so than with the release of his new Stretch CD, Synergy. From the James Brown-inspired funk of "Wet Skin" to the salsa/funk of the title track; from the African 12/8 rhythms of "High Life" to the big easy New Orleans feel of "Swamp Thing," Synergy is chock full of the awe-inspiring, polyrhythmic, funky grooves for which Weckl is revered. Truly a collaborative effort between Weckl and his bandmates - Brandon Fields (saxophones, Yamaha WX5, additional keyboards), Jay Oliver (keyboards), Buzz Feiten (guitars), and Tommy Kennedy (bass) - Synergy is indeed the result of a special, synergistic interplay that can only come from a cohesive group of master musicians who play and create together night after night - and obviously still have a whole lot of fun doing it. FEATURING: Dave Weckl - drums, percussion Brandon Fields - saxophones, Yamaha WX5, additional keyboards Jay Oliver
Various Artists Fiesta Picante: The Latin Jazz Party Collection 013431478225 CCD2-4782-2 Reaching all the way back to the beginnings of Concord Picante in 1979, Fiesta Picante traces nearly the entire history of the label in what amounts to a greatest-hits collection with a non-stop groove. The album succeeds as a summary of Picante and as an irresistible danceathon. Disc one is mostly devoted to tracks with a cha-cha or guajira beat, while disc two is dominated by the more rambunctious mambo style. If you ever wanted to sample the output of the Concord Picante label — or for that matter, traditional Latin jazz as performed in the present day — or simply keep a party jumping, this two-hour, double-CD set is for you.