Description
SLEEVE: NM- MEDIA: NM YEAR: 1989 ORIGIN: Japan EXTRAS: Obi & insert
Unlike quite a few filler records, jazz or otherwise, this release offers up a consistent program of top-drawer performances. Besides pleasing completists, the cuts stand equal to many of the original takes, particularly in the case of versions of "Cookin'," "Carvin' the Rock" (two alternate takes are included), and especially Quincy Jones' "Wail Bait" (this last side not only contains one of Clifford Brown's most impressive solos, but one of Gigi Gryce's best arrangements as well).
Also included, a bristling bebop treatment of "Get Happy" and lone takes (at least the only surviving takes) of pianist Elmo Hope's "Bellarosa" and the trumpeter's own "Brownie Eyes." Along with a rich sampling of Brown's rippling, golden-toned solos, the collection also features the fine work of Hope, the underrated alto saxophonist and composer Gigi Gryce, tenor saxophonist and future Monk stalwart Charlie Rouse, trombonist J.J. Johnson, and drummer Art Blakey, among other bop luminaries.