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I suppose the drugs might be blamed for memory loss, but I suspect it's safe to assume there was not a little myth-building in his autobiography, not only regarding "Meets the Rhythm Section." In any case, the music is jazz at its finest. Just to clarify some misinformation, unfortunately perpetuated first by Mr. The truth is, Art had played within six months, in fact so recently as five days prior. 14 '57 that produced his own "Modern Art" album on Aladdin. In any case, the album is great, and a great starting point if your just discovering the other greatest altoist (Lee Konitz is the other) after Charlie Parker (chronologically, that is). Did the man have no memory of the sessions on Dec.
Art, throughout 1956 recorded with the likes of Russ Freeman, Curtis Counce, Jimmy Heath, Carl Perkins, Ben Tucker, Shelly Manne, Chet Baker, Richie Kamuca (have I convinced you yet). Pepper himself, and taken for the truth by many an innocuous listener. Also, a word about Les Koenig, the producer, saying Art hadn't recorded with musicians up to the caliber of Miles' rhythm section until this album; that's pure crap. 11 '56 with Bill Perkins for the album "Just Friends," Dec. 28 '56 and Jan. Bill Perkins, Warne Marsh, Stan Levey, Red Mitchell, Pete Jolly.
Enjoy.
Upon having heard that he was scheduled for this arguably most important date of his career he stared at his sax and wondered how he'd even get it to work properly, noting that it was in poor physical shape. Having twice read Pepper's autobiography Straight Life, this CD was a must have after reading the enthralling section dealing with its production.Of course most are familiar with his all consuming heroin addiction, but what some might not realize is that he hadn't played his horn whatsoever for about six months prior to this production date. He was only given a few hours notice and promptly got loaded on junk just before he arrived at the studio intimidated to be playing with Miles Davis' men. He mentions in the book that his girlfriend essentially duped him into attending the session which was scheduled without his knowledge. Pepper relates how he had completely and utterly devoted his life to junk prior to the date of this recording. A year after its release Down Beat gave this outstanding jazz album five out of five stars and it's easy to see why, smooth and melodic, it's what a quality sax CD should be all about, understated virtual perfection. If you like Art Pepper's music you should find time to pick up one of the most candid and finest autobiographies ever written, Straight Life: The Story of Art Pepper.
What I think is most important is how the music is presented and how it sounds. What an outstanding recording this is. Art Pepper, who gained a lot of experience during his days with Stan Kenton and Benny Carter, has recorded some fine recordings as a leader and "Meets The Rhythm Section" is one of them. Joining Pepper on this swinging journey are members of Miles Davis' band Red Garland, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones. From start to finish it swings and Pepper's lyrical approach to saxophone really makes the music speak. There are so many stories surrounding his personal life, but I would like to say that I don't care what these jazz musicians did in their own lives. Put aside whatever notion you have Art Pepper and give this album a try. Highly recommended.
Relaxed and inspired, this quartet session gives the impression of a group that has been working together for a long time. Quartet playing feels very different than big band playing and allows more room to blow. However, as the original liner notes indicate, this was a one-time meeting between the rhythm section of Miles Davis, which happened to be in Los Angeles, and Pepper, who wasn't told of the session until the day it happened. It's a tribute to the skill of these musicians that a few hours in a studio that day in January 1957 produced an album that became a classic.Most of my exposure to Pepper has been his work with large ensembles, so it's refreshing to listen to him in a more intimate environment. Pepper handled himself well in either situation. If you like the classic jazz quartet sound featuring sax, this CD is essential for your collection.
I've been an Art Pepper fan for a long, long time. This is the session that I keep coming back to. Many decades have passed since the first time that I heard it, but despite all that time, it still sounds fresh. Buy this CD.
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