This Candid recording is such a major success that it is surprising that altoist Phil Woods has rarely recorded in this context. The all-star octet not only features the altoist/leader but trumpeter Benny Bailey, trombonist Curtis Fuller, baritone saxophonist Sahib Shihab, the innovative French horn player Julius Watkins (a major factor in this music), pianist Tommy Flanagan, bassist Buddy Catlett, and drummer Osie Johnson. This set (reissued by Black Lion on CD) consists enti...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

This album has such a logical matchup, it's surprising that it has not happened since. Altoist Phil Woods and tenor saxophonist Lew Tabackin (along with pianist Jimmy Rowles, bassist Michael Moore and drummer Bill Goodwin) are quite explosive on "Limehouse Blues," and display their ability to caress a ballad on a lengthy "Sweet And Lovely," and cook on Tadd Dameron's "Theme Of No Repeat" and three Woods originals. "Petite Chanson" finds Tabackin switching to flute while ...   [ read more ]

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Other than an album for the Italian Red label the previous March, this CD from the defunct Black-Hawk label was the first to feature trumpeter Tom Harrell with the Phil Woods Quintet. At this point in time, bassist Steve Gilmore and drummer Bill Goodwin had been with the band since its beginning 12 years before, while pianist Hal Galper was a five-year veteran. The repertoire on the set is quite strong, with a pair of less-played Duke Ellington pieces (the beautiful "Heaven" and "Azure...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38