The first seven tracks are a reissue of the original album, produced by Norman Granz and recorded 13 January. The date is surprising: according to Buck Clayton, when Count Basie once rang Lester Young saying he was late for a recording, the reply was “Man, I don’t make no records on the thirteenth of no month.” (Basie fired him.)
The 50s generally saw a decline in Young’s playing, but on occasion he seemed to raise his game and produce some fine playing, and these dates reflect that. Benefiting from knowing and having previously played with his fellow musicians, he is relaxed and in command.
The material is mostly taken at a medium tempo and Young, playing short phrases, is looser. Taking A Chance has this, as he lays behind the beat, giving himself space as if searching for further areas to explore.
At times there is a slight frailty, as at the end of his solo on Prisoner Of Love, but it’s gentle and full of emotion. At other times there’s a confidence, his tenor reaching a rich lower register. Our Love Is Here To Stay starts with this, and as his notes get higher it’s as if he’s inwardly enunciating the lyrics through his playing.
Wilson shows his usual piano technique – solid and steady, with shades of stride, swing and concise single note runs. His support work bridges the gap between Young and the straight-down-the-line rhythm of Gene Ramey and Jo Jones, the best brushman around, smooth and flowing as ever.
The earlier 1951 session, with John Lewis on piano, has a more modernistic feel, the bebop credentials of the pianist showing as he carves out solos. Young plays inventively and quicker, responding and prompting, whilst Jones uses snare and cymbal to a greater degree, with the occasional rimshot. The opener, Thou Swell and Little Pee Blues show that light and airy tone that Getz, Warne Marsh and others took on board. As Brew Moore said, “Anyone who doesn’t play like Lester Young is wrong.”
Discography
(1) All Of Me; Prisoner Of Love; Louise; Love Me Or Leave Me; Taking A Chance On Love; Love Is Here To Stay; Pres Returns; Thou Swell; (2) September In The Rain; Undercover Girl Blues; Frenesi; Pete’s Cafe; Little Pee Blues; A Foggy Day; In A Little Spanish Town; Let’s Fall In Love; Down ’N’ Adam; Lester Swings; Slow Motion Blues (78.53)
(1) Young (ts); Wilson (p); Gene Ramey (b); Jo Jones (d). New York, 13 January 1956.
(2) John Lewis replaces Wilson. New York, January & March 1951.
Essential Jazz Classics EJC55778
