Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Jimmy Raney, Jim Hall, Zoot Sims - Two Jims And Zoot (1964)



Guitarists Jimmy Raney and Jim Hall, both masterful unto themselves, team with tenor saxophonist Zoot Sims in a pianoless quintet on a recording made as one of the original CD's in the digital era from the Mobile Fidelity group. It's an energetic program (there's only one laid back tune, Hall's "All Across The City") of original boppish compositions or slightly Brazilian flavored musics that lend well to these great jazz players improvisational talents, especailly considering the strong rhythm section of bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Osie Johnson are also top notch. This rare recording, made in limited quantity, is one to search for and hold onto if you can find it. ~ Michael G. Nastos, All Music Guide

1.Hold Me 2:55
2.A Primera Vez 4:19
3.Presente de Natal 3:06
4.Morning of the Carnival 4:34
5.Este Seu Olhar 4:35
6.Betaminus 3:18
7.Move It 4:25
8.All Across the City 4:48
9.Coisa Mais Linda 4:20
10.How About You?

* Jimmy Raney - Guitar
* Jim Hall - Guitar
* Zoot Sims - Tenor Sax Tenor
* Steve Swallow - Bass
* Osie Johnson - Drums

Recorded 1964

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Bill Evans - The Way To Play





It would be difficult to find a contemporary jazz pianist under the age of 50 whose playing was untouched by the influence of Bill Evans (1929-80). He is best known for his subtlety and lightness of touch, but he was a master of the whole jazz art. There's some quite ferociously swinging playing in this four-disc set. Best of all are the tracks by his classic trio of 1959-61, including the 12 wonderful pieces recorded live at New York's Village Vanguard club. The modern piano trio starts here, with total empathy among all three instruments – piano, bass and drums. Essential listening. ~ Dave Gelly - The Observer