Mose Allison's
Ramblin' with Mose was released in 1958. Other than the opening track, a stellar read of
Joe Liggins' blues "I Got a Right to Cry," this is an entirely instrumental album. Bassist
Addison Farmer and drummer
Ronnie Free accompany the pianist as he rips through "Stranger in Paradise" from the score of Kismet at a tempo that would make the composer dizzy; his "Old Devil Moon," moves through some Latin changes and even rhythmic figures before bringing the tune back to earth, and his own "Ramble" is a scorching back-country blues jaunt that offers some evidence of
Allison's mighty left-hand skills. There are three bonus tracks on the OJC version, all of which are alternate takes. Along with "Back Country Suite," this is an early example of
Allison's absolutely brilliant instrumental prowess as both an arranger and as an improviser. His unique, often unorthodox interpretations of standards and pop songs set him apart from virtually every one of his peers. ~ Thom Jurek