Customer Reviews

Love Song

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Though most think of Percy Heath as founding member of the influential group, Modern Jazz Quartet, on his record "A Love Song", this veteran bassist shows his skills as a leader and proves he is more than capable of producing great work on his own sessions.

Since the bass/cello work of Oscar Pettiford, many have tried the same combination; Ron Carter and here, Percy Heath have been two of the most successful. The unusual sound of solo pizzicato cello is immediately intriguing and addicting.

There is a lot to hear on this date from swing and funk to deep balladry. From Heath originals to MJQ standards, the tunes here all have much to offer. All selections are very personal. My favorite thing about this record is that, unlike many other bass solo feature discs, Love Song doesn't over compensate with too much bass. The natural richness of Heath's sound comes through, which is pleasant compared to other amplified, processed bass sounds. His improvisations and serious swing, I believe, should be held on the same page as the immortal Ray Brown.

Also, terrific photographs.

Beautiful, wonderful music. Jeb Patton, the young pianist, plays like he's lived several lifetimes, so feeling is his touch. Percy Heath: the best. Love the whole album.

I bought my first Modern Jazz Quartet LP in 1959, and have always enjoyed Percy Heath's contribution to the sound. I have purchased several more recordings by the MJQ including the 40th Anniversary boxed set. Unfortunately, this opus, the final recording by the last MJQ member who passed on, was not what I expected.