An angry and biting blowing session led by the expatriate trumpeter. Reece has matured considerably since he last recorded in this country, and the fact that he, as a leader, is able to surround himself with such top-flight associates will give you some idea of his proficiency.
Indeed all the soloists are of such equated ability that any one of them could justifiably have led the group – except one. Hank Jones does his usual trick of stealing the record in his own quiet way. Whether he is playing behind Jay C. Higginbotham or Roland Kirk seems to make no difference. His is a truly timeless modernity based on taste and reason.
In company with the ebullient Persip and bassist Carter, Jones completes a rhythm group notable for its ability to drive and prompt the soloist without imposing any inhibitions on him.
Payne is a dexterous player with a murky tone and good ideas, while Farrell is out of the Rollins-Coltrane set.
This is modern jazz at a high level. I hope that its release in the States will earn Reece some of the recognition he deserves.
Discography
Shadow Of Khan; The Story Of Love; Yamask (16½ min) – Spiritus Parkus; Summertime; Ackmet (21 min)
Dizzy Reece (tpt); Joe Farrell (ten, fl); Cecil Payne (bar); Hank Jones (p); Ron Carter (bs); Charlie Persip (d). March 13, 1962.
(Esquire 32-185 12inLP 35s. 1d.)
