Search - Charlie Haden, Chet Baker, Pieranunzi :: Silence

Maybe Hens best

C. Katz | Peoples Republic Of Massachussettes | 07/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"OK.Have to admit have never really figured out my own oppinion on Charlie Haden.Yes ground breaking with Ornette.Liberation Orchestra first LP had zeitgeist of late 60's early 70's and maybe one for the few overtly political LP's to work (Like Max Roach "We Insist-Freedom Now").Yes his varied output from Quartet West with it's Film Noir is OK.Hank Jones and Metheny Duet LP's the same.A varied and famous career even if for me he is not THE MAN as player,composer,or leader on bass.



That said here with Chet Baker (in good shape) with perfect companions Enrico Pieranunzi on keys and Mr.Billy Higgins on drums it's a laid back delight.Tunes are Haden's 1)Vista and 2)Silence (maybe his best known original) followed by a Pieranunzi comp 3)Echi.Chet's singing on 4)My Funny Valentine is good for late Chet (must have had his methadone that day) but that said it's late Chet don't expect the 50's sine this is a 1989 recording (and one of Chet's last studio dates I believe).But his playing is throughout on 5)'Round About Midnight and George Shearing's " 6)Conception (whihc does cook a bit and will wake you up so you can put on the next CD).Everybody is recorded well with Haden not to far out in the mix,Pieranunzi the epitome of style and class and Higgins tastefully understated on mainly brushes keeping simple yet intricate time (I marvel at that) throughout.Maybe not the most IMPORTANT work of Haden but a true work of taste and beauty and my favorite with him as leader.This lovely soft Sunday afternoon or late evening jazz CD which you will return to again and again.

Peace

Chazz"