In lieu of picking up one of the trumpeter's fine Blue Note releases (
Una Mas,
Whistle Stop), listeners new to the work of
Kenny Dorham should definitely consider this somewhat overlooked Riverside date from 1959. The set features plenty of
Dorham's varied and sophisticated horn work and four of his top-drawer originals. The theme is spring, and
Dorham responds with his soon to be jazz standard "Spring Is Here" and three other fine seasonal tributes: the title track, "Poetic Spring," and "Spring Cannon." This last cut is also a tribute to
Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, who guests in fine style here with a bevy of fleet and highly melodic solos. Rounding out the group, baritone saxophonist
Cecil Payne, French horn player
David Amram, and pianist
Cedar Walton add very nicely to the album's breezy yet provocative air. Essential listening for
Dorham fans.