Search - Modern Jazz Quartet :: Best of

Sophisticated cool

Alejandra Vernon | Long Beach, California | 02/08/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There is an elegance and streamlined artistry to this marvelous compilation of cuts from two albums. Three tracks are from "Together Again", recorded in 1984: # 2, "Connie's Blues" and # 6, "Echoes" both by Milt Jackson, and # 7, bassist Percy Heath's "The Watergate Blues".

Four tracks have been culled from "Topsy: This One's for Basie" recorded in 1985: # 1, "Valeria" and # 3, "Le Cannet", both by John Lewis, # 4, Jackson's "Reunion Blues", and # 5, the great theme song from the film "The Boy with Green Hair" and hit for Nat King Cole, "Nature Boy" (Eden-Ahbez), here featuring a simple but luminous rendition by Jackson.



This is sleek, sophisticated jazz, the ultimate in cool, with perfect integration between these superb musicians, three whom are no longer with us: Jackson (1923-1999) on vibes, Lewis (1920-2001) on piano, Heath on bass, and Connie Kay (1927-1995) on drums.

Perfect music for relaxing or reading, or as a delectable soundtrack for your next classy soiree; though there are some finger-snapping up-tempo numbers (like the terrific "Valeria"), the sound levels are always fairly modulated, and there is a peaceful and harmonious feel to this disc.

The foldout insert has only song list/recording info and a photo of the quartet, the sound is quite good, and total playing time is 45'10.

"

New Swingin' MJQ!!!!!!!!!!!!

Christopher Covais | ny | 04/13/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is more swinging than some of their others, but it still has elements of their past albums. For instance, unique arrangements, classical influences, and Connie Kay's unique use of percussion equipment and sizzle cymbols. A few tunes to point out, Connie's Blues, Nature Boy, and Watergate Blues. ( a tune written by bassist Percy Heath)
Note:
The song selection listed in the page is wrong!"

Best of should have more!

Author Brian Wallace (Mind Transmis | Texas | 01/01/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"groovy, sultry and satisfying but ultimately truncated version of greatness. This thing needed more of a good thing: additional songs!"