"The Poll Winners" Is A Winner!
Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 03/11/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Guitarist Barney Kessel, bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne were the people's choice on their instruments in the late 1950s. Since they had recorded together in the past (with a variety of frontmen), it was only natural that they try to reap the financial rewards of their popularity by forming the Poll Winners Trio. Their first album, "The Poll Winners," is the perfect blend of jazz ear-candy and passionate, professional playing. With the exception of Kessel's "Minor Mood," this March 1957 session is an all standard affair, and they are all rendered beautifully, from "Satin Doll" to "On Green Dolphin Street." Simply put, "Poll Winners" is a winner."