Saturday 25th February 2023, 6:00 PM – Jazz Carousel.
Lucky Thompson (our man in Paris), tenor Clifford Jordan in quartet formation (1974), and alt Willie Smith & The Harry James All Stars – Live in ’45.
During his successful Parisian period (1956-1960), Lucky Thompson (photo) often played with the quartet of Gérard “Dave” Pochonet, a drummer who regularly accompanied American musicians. This quartet – with a modest contribution from Pochonet’s percussion – gives the saxophonist plenty of room to shine. His version of My Funny Valentine is moving. We take the detuned piano for granted.
See Thompson at work in Paris? Check YouTube!
The detuned piano on tenor Clifford Jordan’s album Glass Bead Games (1974) sounds within a different musical context: post bop. Admittedly, a somewhat vague concept. You will hear two compositions by the quartet’s pianist, Cedar Walton. For the third, and most elaborate and adventurous piece, Alias Buster Henry, drummer Billy Higgins signed on. The pianist here is Stanley Cowell.
Willie Smith & The Harry James All Stars (1945) round off the program with three pieces.
More information in the Guide.
Click for the previous episode – and Click for the accompanying Newsletter.
Jazz Caroussel – Bert Broere
