Peter Friedman

Op.18/6 and Op.135

I was a Monterose fan from when first hearing him on Savoy LP's with Eddie Bert. Followed by the album on Jaro and then others. I have a somewhat personal experience regarding J.R. Monterose. It must have been sometime in the mid-50's. I was living in Detroit and was visiting a cousin in NYC. He took me to a strip club and the music backing the strippers grabbed my attention. It was a tenor player with a very familiar sound - style. After looking at him carefully I quickly realized it was J.R. Monterose. His music made the evening something special for me.

Some more Hawk , though a bit earlier

I agree, no vocals necessary, "Night Mist" is a terrific session just as it is. Now playing: Dick Haymes was a fine singer, though overshadowed by Frank Sinatra. Too bad, in my opinion, that neither Haymes or Sinatra was ever recorded with a swinging small jazz group.

Symphony No.3

String Quartets No.1 and No.2

I believe this is the only album where Rollins and McLean both play. I found Art Blakey's drum work highly impressive, especially on the tune "Denial". Miles playing On the tune "Bluing" also, to my ears, was damn good. Had not played this album in a very long time, and was slightly surprised at how much I enjoyed it.