John Tapscott

Producer Michael Cuscuna mentions them in the notes to the Columbia box set. Lots of big egos involved. Cuscuna had asked the musicians to rehearse some Cedar Walton tunes the day before the session. When Cuscuna flew in from Europe the day of the session, and found out they hadn't rehearsed, it seems he was none too happy. Finally, Art Blakey came to Michael's defense and got the musicians to lay something down. It's surprising the session happened at all, let alone come off as well as it did. You will notice that it has rather short playing time.

Excellent Thad Jones on this.

I really liked "Sophisticated Giant" when it came out in the late 70's, but I was mildly disappointed after listening to it recently on Gordon's Columbia box set. Kind of lifeless. On the other hand, the "Gotham City" session, which was beset with problems in the studio, is a really fine recording, which I had not remembered. Time does change one's perception.

"Our Man in Paris" is not included, probably because Bud was not the leader. Now

Now: Disc 2

I agree with Peter on this. I'm generally a fan of Evans but I am disappointed that just when the trio starts building up a swinging head of steam, Evans hands it over to Gomez for a lengthy bass solo. Sometimes it happens after just a chorus of piano soloing and it seems to bring the musical intensity way down. Gomez is a highly skilled bass player, but long bass solos...I don't know.

Sweet Basil is a really fine set. Now:

I'm listening to this one now. Has some very good Hicks . This is an excellent record IMHO. This one is very good, too. Two more good ones

That's a good one. I was thinking about Hicks just yesterday and realized that I haven't listened to him recently. Must get to it.

Another one I really like:

Disc 1

I think Profile is my favourite. But all his CD's are solid.

R.I.P. I have a number of Jessica's recordings, including all her recordings on the Canadian Jazz Focus label which Ken mentioned (that label is a story in itself). She was a great pianist, and could swing like crazy, especially when she was playing with Leroy Vinnegar.

For those who like these musicians (and I realize that not everyone does), this is a superb recording. Now: Realized I hadn't listened to any Valery in a while, so pulled this one off my shelf at random for a listen. Then I realized this is not the most appropriately titled CD to be listening to under the circumstances.

Now: Steve Davis is outstanding on this release.

Now: