Search - Stan Getz :: Cool Bebop: 1945-1949

This 20-song compilation documents the early development of tenor Stan Getz from a Lester Young disciple into a unique and compelling voice. The set kicks off with three 1945 recordings from Kai Winding's sextet, when Getz, a mere 18 years old, still seemed to be under Young's spell. The four cuts from July 1946 mark Getz's first session as a leader; on one, he brought in bebop heavies Hank Jones, Curley Russell, and Max Roach. It's clear from his choice of sidemen and the increased fire in his playing that Getz was falling under the influence of Charlie Parker. The collection wends through three cuts featuring Getz with the Woody Herman Orchestra--two uptempos and an exquisite ballad, "Early Autumn," which offers supremely delicate solos from both Herman (on Johnny Hodges-inspired alto) and Getz. Six cuts follow, from spring 1949, by Getz-led octets including fellow tenors (and Herman vets) Zoot Sims and Al Cohn. It concludes with four quartet cuts with pianist Al Haig. Even by this last 1949 session, Getz hadn't quite found his signature sound yet, that uniquely superb fusion of Young's feathery poise and Parker's fiery tide, but he was well on his way. --Marc Greilsamer