Two of Tal's exceptional 10" albums from the '50s on one CD.
ccamp@qntm.com | Pleasanton, California, USA | 11/06/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was plasantly surprised to find two of Tal's earlier 10" albums on this CD. "Howard McGhee Vol 2" displays Tal's superior talent as a sideman in a sextet. Thoroughly enjoyable. "Tal Farlow Quartet" demonstrates what Tal could do as leader. His renditions of "Lover" and "All Through The Night" leave little doubt why so many of the biggest names in jazz guitar revere him. One of his early examples of his harmonic solo prowess can be heard in "Flamingo", though not perfectly executed. All in all, I'd say this CD is well worth adding to your collection."
Howard McGhee-forgotten trumpet master
James B | Kansas City, Mo. United States | 07/03/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This compilation of blue note sides w. gigi gryce and tal farlow is very possibly the best music on record that Howard McGhee has left us. Absolutely gorgeous full tone working mostly mid-register, McGhee's trumpet lines are always clear, clean and creative. No grandstanding. No cliches. The band sounds thouroughly rehearsed and very modern in each musician's approach to their insturment's sound. Though early miles, diz, clifford brown and fats navarro get the bop notice,these sides are masterpieces by a truly overlooked trumpet master. The recording quality and transfer to cd is very vivid and clean. ESSENTIAL. TRANSCENDENT."