Recorded in New York City, June 13, 1958 at Beltone Studios.
A unique early large group session from pianist Toshiko Akioshi -- recorded with a hip group of international players! The record's almost a precursor of some of Akioshi's better-known big band work of later years -- but it's got more of a small combo feel overall, thanks to a tight septet lineup that includes Toshiko on piano, Nat Adderley on cornet, Rolf Kuhn on alto and clarinet, Bobby Jaspar on tenor and flute, Rene Thomas on guitar, John Drew on bass, and Bert Dahlander (aka Bart Dahl) on drums. Doc Severinson stands in on trumpet for Adderley on a few numbers -- but the real stars of the show are the reedmen, who get plenty of space to do their thing, and seem to show Toshiko's early preference for sharp-edged solos with a lot of feeling. Titles include "Sukiyaki", "Swinging Till The Girls Come Home", "United Notions", and "Civilized Folk". |