As a general rule, Uptown Records has focused on releasing material from the 40s to the 60s, obscure radio broadcasts or studio material that got lost in Grandpa’s attic. This time, they are actually bring back one of their own pet projects, a pair of recordings from the 80s that feature two artists (on 2 cds) that have been on some major bands and sessions, but had never received the deserved accolades during their lifetimes.
Frank Wess/ts-as-fl made his name with Count Basie’s Atomic Big Band in the 50s and 60s, while sweet toned Johnny Coles during the same time was with the classic Mingus team with Eric Dolphy, toured with Ellington, and also made some incredible sessions with Gil Evans. Together, they put together a 1983 studio session with Kenny Barron/p (who had his own group Sphere as well as just about to join up with Stan Getz), Kenny Washington/dr (was he in Jr. High or something?!?),and Rebbie Johnson/b for material that emphasizes the heyday of bop; lots of material by Bud Powell, Gigi Gryce, Tadd Dameron Kenny Dorham and Benny Golson. Cole’s porcelain tone takes charge on “Whistle Stop” and “Minority,” while Wess’ alto cuts like a rug on “Nica’s Tempo.” Barron is having a protobopping field day here, taking Bud Powell’s “Celia” apart like a dog with a rubber taco. All of the songs are around 5-6 minutes so you get over an hour’s worth of concise and driving acoustic jazz during a time when everyone else was still plugging in. Balm to the ears!
The second disc is a 1988 radio broadcast from Yoshi’s club in San Francisco (and, behold! It’s still open! What a concept!!!)with a pre-Mehldau Larry Grenadier, Smith Dobson/p and Donald “Duck” Bailey/dr stretching out a bit on five tunes. Wess’s flute is a treat here, and he swoops on the happening “One For Amos” like a pelican on a minnow. He coos on the tenor on a quartet reading of the silk drapes of “If You Don’t Call, Don’t Come” while Coles cooks like he’s flipping burgers at Tommy’s on “Minority” and “Blues For David,” which also showcases what a rhythm section can do when the right guy is at the reins. Where has this one BEEN?!?!?
Uptown Records
www.uptownrecords.net