Mr. Bechet

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Mr. Bechet album cover
Album Information
EDITOR'S PICK

Total Tracks: 7   Total Length: 44:12

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Lovely stuff!

nanibgal

This is essentially the Earl Hines quartet of the time and it was one of the finest mainstream groups of the time. Relaxed swing by masters--Johnson was a fabulous warm sounding tenor player with roots in the swing era but also with a good ear for more modern harmonies. His soprano sound was delicious! Budd Johnson: tenor and soprano saxophones/ Earl Hines: piano/ Jimmy Leary: bass/ Panama Francis: drums

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They Say All Music Guide

Budd Johnson didn’t do much recording as a leader, so this French studio date is particularly valuable. He’s reunited with Earl Hines, with whom he played during three stints between 1932-1942; they’re joined by drummer Panama Francis and bassist Jimmy Leary. The title track is an original tribute to the king of soprano saxophonists, though it was his second instrument, Johnson delivers a powerful solo with his own unique tone. He’s back to tenor sax for the bluesy “Am I Wasting My Time?” and clearly enjoys himself on Hines’ romping “Linger Awhile.” Like all of Budd Johnson’s releases, this CD is strongly recommended. – Ken Dryden