This is a classic encounter in the Original Jazz Classics series. Pianist
Count Basie (in his best-small group outing of the 1970s) and tenor saxophonist
Zoot Sims were mutually inspired by each other's presence and, with the tasteful assistance of bassist
John Heard and drummer
Louie Bellson, they can be heard playing at the peak of their creative powers. Every listener interested in swinging jazz should pick up this disc, if only to hear these hard-charging versions of "I Never Knew," "It's Only a Paper Moon," and "Honeysuckle Rose." A gem, and essential music. ~ Scott Yanow