Phil is indeed on drums, but the star of the band is Tommy Whittle. Coming close to his own high standards as exemplified on the ’77′ George Chisholm album, Whittle authoritatively demonstrates his constant swing and excellent ideas. There aren’t too many who can challenge him on a good night, and this was a pretty fair one.
Whittle has always been one of the less publicised heroes of the modern/mainstream idiom, but those who remember him from the old Studio 51 days can rest assured that he is playing better than ever. His admirers will particularly enjoy the six-minute version of When Sonny Gets Blue, which is almost all Whittle apart from the theme statement by Sandy Brown. He also pulls together an Allen’s Alley that is in danger of falling apart at the seams. This track also has solos by the two trombonists, neither of whom is especially exciting.
Apart from Whittle, the two tracks by the full band are notable for some fine work by Gerry Salisbury. The rhythm section is excellent, with the nominal leader’s drums driving as always. Brian Lemon and Lennie Bush also play their full part.
One can only speculate as to the reasons why 77 should have taken three years to issue this session, and then under Seamen’s name. However, it is very welcome particularly for Whittle’s work. Perhaps Doug Dobell can now be persuaded to give him a date of his own?
Discography
(b) Allen’s Alley; (a) It’s A Wonderful World (23 min) – (c) When Sonny Gets Blue; Just Squeeze Me (23½ min)
(a) Ray Crane (tpt); Gerry Salisbury (cnt); Keith Christie, Johnny Picard (tbn); Sandy Brown (clt); Tommy Whittle (ten); Brian Lemon (pno); Lennie Bush (bs); Phil Seamen (dm). Country Club, Hampstead. London 17/12/71.
(b) as (a) but Crane and Salisbury and Brown omitted. Same date.
(c) as (a) except Crane, Salisbury, Picard and Christie emitted. Same date.
(77 SEU 12/53 £2.25)