Search - Dexter Gordon :: Take the 'A' Train

This Stuff is Smokin'!!

Gertrude | New York USA | 05/04/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This cd features the Dexter Gordon at his absolute best. Whether playng a burning up tempo solo or a tender ballad, Dexter Gordon is at the top of his game.



Dex's supporting cast on this date is locked in with him on every note. Kenny Drew - piano, Neils Henning Orsted Pedersen - bass, and Albert 'Tootie' Heath on drums, play with fire, excitement and taste throughout the entire set. The rhythm section does a fine job of supporting Gordon through several blazing solos. In turn, Dex gives all members of the band plenty of time to shine, as well.



I'd be remiss if I did not mention the excellent drumming of Albert "Tootie" Heat. His drumming behind Gordon is thrilling as he builds tons of energy without ever getting in the way or overplaying. He's constantly pushing Gordon to new heights and Gordon returns the favor. They have several great exchanges throughout and clearly had developed an outstanding chemistry by the time these recordings were made. The finest moment between Gordon and Heath comes while the two trade eight bar solos on the album's final song: "Love For Sale.".



Whether its an up tempo number like: "But Not For Me," or a beautiful ballad such as: "I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry," Gordon and the band are nearly flawless in their approach and execution with these songs.



Until I heard this disc, my favorite Gordon album was 1963's "Our Man in Paris." But this disc has it all. It gets my highest rating.



This 1967 live date is beautifully captured at Copenhagen's Montmarte Club. I would award 5 stars for the excellent sound quality of this recording, as well. There is something magical about it. More than simply hearing the music, it almost surrounds you. I wish all cds sounded this good.



BTW, two more cds are available from these 1967 Copenhagen dates. They are titled: "Body & Soul" and "Both Sides of Midnight.""

Essential Dexter Gordon

jazz lover since 1960 | Tampa, Fl. and Franklin, NC | 07/28/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I agree completely with the previous reviewer of this CD. This is a must have for the jazz fan.

As the previous reviewer indicates, this is just one of the 3 CD's released from this live session at the Montmarte club in July 1967. You can get the complete 3 CD's as a box set entitled "Live at the Montmarte Jazzhaus" and it is priceless. As I noted in my review of the box set, you can also collect the 3 CD's one at a time, possibly at a lesser cost than the box set. Either way, get these recordings, they are Dexter playing at this height of his considerable powers. And that means that this is jazz at it's absolute best."