Count Basie: The Band Of Distinction auf 2 CDs

Featuring: Joe Newman, Joe Wilder, Thad Jones, Johnny Mandel (tp), Henry Coker, Benny Powell (tb), Marshall Royal, Ernie Wilkins, Frank Wess, Frank Foster, Charlie Fowlkes (saxes), Count Basie (p, org), Freddie Green (g), Eddie Jones (b), Gus Johnson (d)

When this particular edition of Basie’s band began rolling in 1953, some observers thought its soloists were not up to the quality of past Basie units. Within a few months, this opinion was shown to be well wide of the mark. Almost single-handedly, Count Basie had given the band business a jolt with this group and, Basie’s own immeasurable contributions aside, it was the instrumentalists themselves who made it a band of distinction.

Joe Newman became one of the most consistent trumpeters in jazz; trombonists Benny Powell and Henry Coker had few equals in modern jazz; meanwhile, vigorous tenors Frank Wess and Frank Foster were on their way to a revered place in the Basie jazz pantheon. And the rhythm section, with Freddie Green, Eddie Jones, Gus Johnson, and the Count, was unique in the big band field.

“Blazing power and a zest for blowing” was how one critic described Basie’s band of distinction. In 1955 it was voted the world’s top jazz band in Down Beat’s annual reader’s poll. For those who will be hearing this Basie band for the first time—we envy you! (freshsoundrecords. com)