What initially seems like an unlikely pairing for this session delivers on its unique pedigree with performances that do full justice to tenor legend
Ben Webster and to the then up and coming pianist
Joe Zawinul. Recorded in 1963 while the pianist was a member of the Cannonball Adderley Sextet, the session came about as a result of
Webster's and
Zawinul's sharing a New York apartment for several months. It's actually billed as
Zawinul's first session as leader and
Webster's last in the U.S. before his move to Europe. The tunes generally keep to mid-tempos, a pace that affords
Webster the opportunity to wield the gentler side of his legendary sound. His rich, nuanced tone and magnificent phrasing are superbly in evidence. Listeners only familiar with
Zawinul's soul-jazz side with
Adderley and later his pioneering synthesizer work with
Weather Report may be surprised at his eloquent playing here in a classic style right out of
Tommy Flanagan or
Red Garland. The presence of
Thad Jones -- a legend in his own right -- on cornet for four tacks is a bonus. With a rhythm section rounded out by the slightly lesser legends of drummer
Philly Joe Jones and bassist
Sam Jones, alternating with
Richard Davis, there isn't one false step on this set. It may tend to the mellower side of things, but that simply means there's more opportunity to luxuriate in
Webster's peerless sound. ~ Jim Todd