Two of Pepper Adams' best late 50s outings -- back to back on a single CD! First up is the Pepper Adams Quintet album recorded for Mode -- a stripped-down quartet session that has him blowing in a very open-ended mode -- quite a difference from some of his more tightly arranged sets! The feel's a bit like Pepper's work with Donald Byrd, but even more openly swinging -- played by a quintet that includes Stu Williamson on trumpet, Carl Perkins on piano, Leroy Vinnegar on bass, and Mel Lewis on drums. Tracks are all long and fresh -- and the record's almost got the feel of a great Prestige blowing session from the time. Pepper's work on baritone is jaw-dropping throughout -- and titles include "Unforgettable", "Baubles Bangles & Beads", "Freddie Froo", and "Muezzin". Critic's Choice is a real lost treasure from the Pacific Jazz label -- a rare late 50s west coast session from Pepper Adams, featuring the amazing baritonist in a group with Lee Katzman on trumpet, Jimmy Rowles on piano, Doug Watkins on bass, and Mel Lewis on drums! The sound is incredible -- on a par with that rare few of Adams' other magnificent albums as a leader -- modern, yet soulful, and with a fluid feel that makes it hard to believe that Pepper's working with a baritone sax. Tracks are all longish, and feature some nice unusual numbers that include "Minor Mishap", "Blackout Blues", "High Step", "5021", and "Zec". |
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