Search - Ruby Braff, Ralph Sutton :: R & R

Swinging Chamber Jazz

B. D. Tutt | London, UK. | 07/04/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the partial re-issue of two 1979 LPs originally on the Chaz Jazz label. The result is a mixture of Braff / Sutton duets and quartets (adding Jack Lesberg & Gus Johnson). Both combinations are hard swinging, with Sutton and Braff in characteristic form. My preference though is for the duet sides, with "Royal Garden Blues" and "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" being outstandingly driving performances. There is also some predictably excellent ballad playing, and a few curiosities, such as a slow & melodious reading of Joe Sullivan's showpiece "Little Rock Getaway".Recording quality is excellent throughout, with Ruby Braff's unmistakable sound captured well.This CD is self-recommending for Sutton & Braff fans. Let's hope that the remaining sides from these sessions will be re-issued in due course."