******
- Verified Buyer
A classic album of Chet's, despite the circumstances - this album was recorded about a year after the famous incident where Chet got beat up and had his teeth knocked out. He stays in the lower register of the horn, sometimes his notes barely sound - but this is part of what makes it great. It's exactly the vibe that people love Chet's playing for, the sadness coming straight through his horn. The tune choices are unique too, instead of another collection of My Funny Valentine or other hits he had. In fact, all but track 8 are composed by Steve Allen, who apparently organized the session. My biggest gripe is that Paul Smith (a great keyboardist!) used an off-brand organ for accompaniment, and it sounds really dated. The organ sounds are super dry, almost like a computer beep - it's not very musical, and it's in every track. That said, I can't help coming back to the album. The feel is classic Chet, and the songs are great. It got panned in some reviews since Chet's playing was not where it once was, but that's part of the vibe, I think.Personnel:Paul Smith, keyboards - Barney Kessel, guitar - Jim Hughart, bass - Frank Capp, drums
