This set is from sessions also heard on Savoy's
Meet Milt Jackson. Six tracks are from a 1949 sextet with
Kenny Dorham (trumpet),
Billy Mitchell (tenor sax),
Julius Watkins (French horn),
Curly Russell (bass), and
Kenny Clarke (drums); three others are from the excellent 1956 sessions
Jackson did with
Lucky Thompson (tenor sax), along with
Wade Legge (piano),
Wendell Marshall (bass), and
Kenny Clarke (drums). On the earlier numbers, the ensemble work is ragged and the soloists -- including the typically inspired
Jackson -- turn in workmanlike efforts. Even
Clarke's usual crispness and sparkle is absent. Fortunately, half the 34-minute disc is given over to the
Jackson/
Thompson partnering, starting with a relaxed, amiable reading of "Come Rain or Come Shine." The high points, however, are the
Jackson originals "Fred's Mood" and "Wild Man." Although not commonly viewed as a hard bop pioneer, the urbane, bluesy structures that distinguish
Jackson's writing at this time, arguably, make him a trailblazer for the movement. Certainly it is the
Jackson originals that draw out the best from both the vibist and
Thompson on their two January 1956 sessions, the balance of which can be heard on The Jazz Skyline, Jackson's Ville, and
Meet Milt Jackson. These are all worth seeking out, although
Meet Milt Jackson, like
Roll 'Em Bags, also has items of lesser consequence from other sessions.