While overlooked today, vibist Joe Roland was an in demand artist, best known for his work with George Shearing. This two disc set of his material from 1949-56 dispalys that same classy charm, as he leads a variety of small groups that include artists like Red Mitchell/p, Joe Puma/g, Freddie Redd/p, Oscar Pettiford/b Oscar Pettiford/b and Kenny Clarke/dr
Roland’s touch is soulful and kinetic, gliding in the quintet of “Henry VIII” while a teaming with some strings adds panache to “ Half Nelson” and “Sally Is Gone”. A collection of Christmas songs like “Sleigh Ride” and “Jingle Bells” with percussionists Jose Mangual-Luis Miranda-Ubaldo Nieto is a real hoot, wile some serious hard bopping takes place with Redd and Pettiford on “Garrity’s Flight”. Redd sticks arou8nd for a hip “Soft Winds” and Easy Living” while a take of “Laura” is as lovely as Gene Tierney. Glowing vibes.
The booklest includes copious notes and a list of all of the sessions. One worth looking for.