Just when you think you’ve heard all there is of legendary trumpeter Chet Baker, here comes a real thrill. Baker sticks to his horn here in a variety of settings. His Quartet with Dick Twardzik/p, Jimmy Bond/b and Peter Littman/dr is caught in Stuttgart in the fall of 1955, and everyone sounds wonderful on a hiply bopping “Cool Blues,” a rich “Lover Man” and a swinging “Sweet Georgia Brown.” Baker’s horn glistens warmly with a larger ensemble that moves lithely on a snappy “Baker ‘56” and “Lullaby in Rhythm. “ Caterina Valente brings her voice and guitar to a couple of tracks that work well, “Every Time We Say Goodbye” and “I’ll Remember April” and the Baker sounds inspired by the companionship. The entire collection has a sly bounce to its step that is irresistible, with a lyrical “Polka Dots and Moonbeams” shining in the night. Prime time Baker, showing us what is missing in today’s music.
Jazz Haus Records