Customer Reviews

Setting Standards

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I can't let this superb CD get only one complementary review. It is Woody, the candidate for the most underappreciated trumpeter in jazz, playing straight ahead jazz at it's best. In the 70's' Woody made many albums with a decided modal emphasis. He then played a lot of originals. Here, Woody returns to standards and a more conventional approach. Of course, modalism is still present in his improvisations. His unique tone, rhythmic sense and vibrato, etc. make for lovely playing of standards. He is supported by the best rhythm section you could wish for: the great Cedar Walton on piano, Buster Williams on bass and Victor Jones on drums. I have come to regard Buster as one of my favorite bassists, and am hoping to hear more of Victor Jones. His drumming is excellent to me. Get this CD.

Woody Shaw had his up and downs in his recording career, but this album is one of his finest displays. He carves out beautiful lines through the various standards on this recording, epitomizing how he comes from the same vibe as Freddie, but is so much more thoughtful and relies on his technical prowess less than his more famous peer.

This album needs studying - its true worth only surfaces to the listener after several plays, but when it does it never fails to bring something new to your ears. A master class in how to use pentatonics and fourths in a subtle, uncliched way.