Search - Art Pepper :: Meets Rhythm Session 1

Even without Pepper's tall tales, the album is great

Schubert aficionado | CA United States | 07/03/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just to clarify some misinformation, unfortunately perpetuated first by Mr. Pepper himself, and taken for the truth by many an innocuous listener. The truth is, Art had played within six months, in fact so recently as five days prior! Did the man have no memory of the sessions on Dec. 11 '56 with Bill Perkins for the album "Just Friends," Dec. 28 '56 and Jan. 14 '57 that produced his own "Modern Art" album on Aladdin? I suppose the drugs might be blamed for memory loss, but I suspect it's safe to assume there was not a little myth-building in his autobiography, not only regarding "Meets the Rhythm Section." In any case, the music is jazz at its finest.

Also, a word about Les Koenig, the producer, saying Art hadn't recorded with musicians up to the caliber of Miles' rhythm section until this album; that's pure crap. Art, throughout 1956 recorded with the likes of Russ Freeman, Curtis Counce, Jimmy Heath, Carl Perkins, Ben Tucker, Shelly Manne, Chet Baker, Richie Kamuca (have I convinced you yet?) Bill Perkins, Warne Marsh, Stan Levey, Red Mitchell, Pete Jolly...

In any case, the album is great, and a great starting point if your just discovering the other greatest altoist (Lee Konitz is the other) after Charlie Parker (chronologically, that is). Enjoy!"

Classic Pepper!

J. Rich | 01/15/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Art Pepper, who gained a lot of experience during his days with Stan Kenton and Benny Carter, has recorded some fine recordings as a leader and "Meets The Rhythm Section" is one of them. What an outstanding recording this is! From start to finish it swings and Pepper's lyrical approach to saxophone really makes the music speak. There are so many stories surrounding his personal life, but I would like to say that I don't care what these jazz musicians did in their own lives. What I think is most important is how the music is presented and how it sounds. Joining Pepper on this swinging journey are members of Miles Davis' band Red Garland, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones. Put aside whatever notion you have Art Pepper and give this album a try. Highly recommended."