This compilation of recordings by pianist
Jef Gilson are most notable for showcasing some of the earliest work by violinist
Jean-Luc Ponty, who also plays clarinet in the ensembles on a few tracks. All the songs were written by
Gilson, with the waltzing opener "Java for Raspal," the
Monkish "Fable for Gutenberg," and the tongue-in-cheek "Windy Blues" standing out from the pack.
Gilson, for the most part, avoids the solo spotlight, instead featuring Ponty, tenor saxophonist Jean-Louis Chautemps, soprano saxophonist
Francois Jeanneau, and trumpeter/flugelhornist Bernard Vitet. Worth picking up if found at a bargain price. ~ Ken Dryden