1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The great swing rhythm section that never was, June 5, 2008
This is a great CD. Definitely one of the top recordings from the latter half of both Hawkins' and Eldridge's careers. But let's give credit where credit is due. Who knew - really, who? - that that occasionally VERY effete MJQ was an AWESOME swing rhythm section. One of the greatest, in fact. Listen to the groove they set up behind the opening of Hawkins' solo on the second version of The Walker. Poppin'! It's got that kind of up-to-date Ray Bryant Madison thing going on, but at the same time a kind of updated Milt Hinton/Jo Jones groove. And John Lewis' comping! Like a whole tasty big band smoking quietly underneath. None of those rococo Oscar Peterson curliques. Swing, baby - with capital S! And this inspires our middle-aged heroes to really go for it. Why is this out of print? No matter; spend this ridiculous amount of money - you need it!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
