This 1955 date is an intriguing opportunity to hear
Milt Jackson accompanied by the
MJQ rhythm section, but with hard bopper
Horace Silver substituting for
John Lewis. Not only that, it's also a chance to hear a hitherto unknown, lushly romantic side of both
Jackson and
Silver, two blues-oriented players who rarely if ever recorded standards in this sort of style. With its excellent recording quality, it's a perfect album for intimate dinners and other late-night activities.
Artie Shaw's exotic "Moonray" is rarely heard in any sort of context, while "My Funny Valentine" and "The Nearness of You" set the mood throughout.