5.0 out of 5 stars
Final Volume of the Magic Triangle led by Clifford Jordan, August 17, 2011
This review is from: On Stage, Vol. 3 (Audio CD)
As I stated in my reviews of Volumes 1 and 2 of this 3 volume live recording session, these are the best recordings of Clifford's career. They are also amoung the best recordings in jazz history. This is a big claim, but one I stand by. Clifford is one of the most underrated of tenor sax artists in jazz history. He has a unique style. He is at once bluesy and swinging, but also light and sensitive. Furthermore, the rest of the quartet here are the best. Billy Higgins is one of the greatest drummers to ever play jazz. In the 3 volumes of this set, he is heard to the best advantage. His crisp, dancing rhythms are brought to the forefront. In fact, I would say, his drumming is what makes these recordings so vital to me. In my reviews of Vol. 1 and 2, I pick out one number that is a highlight of the disc. In this volume, I highlight "Seven Minds." Listen not only to Clifford, but also listen to Billy's drumming, and Sam Jones fine bass solo.
This is no hastily put together group. Cedar has played with Clifford starting at 15 years prior to this recording. The group has been together for 5 years. It shows. Be sure to listen to the 2 studio recordings this group made during this 1975 European tour: "Highest Mountain" and "Firm Roots," also on the Steeplechase label.
One final note about this recording: "Glass Bead Games" is often cited as Clifford's masterpiece. I disagree. These recordings by one of the same quartets that recorded "Glass Bead Games" is more mature and fuller than that contained on "Glass Bead Games."
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
