Trombone Master

Read About This Recording

Johnson perfected the slide trombone as a solo instument for modern jazz. He brought the influence of Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie to his work with Miles Davis and his historic pairing with Kai Winding. From the slinky opening chords of Thelonious Monk's Mysterioso, Johnson's own distinctive sound infuses this collection of classic jazz with his characteristic finesse, wit and insight.

The music is taken from four Columbia albums, J.J. In Person, Blue Trombone, A Touch of Satin and First Place. Highlights on this CD include a singing version of Laura, a brisk What Is This Thing Called Love, a sassy Satin Doll and a wry Cry Me A River.

Three different bands are featured, along with Tommy Flanagan,the same stellar pianist on seven of nine tracks. Remastered with liner notes by Ira Gitler, it's a satisfying sampler of an artist that put modern jazz trombone on the map.

-Richard Antone

Contents

Misterioso; Laura; What Is This Thing Called Love; My Old Flame; Blue Trombone; What's New; Satin Doll; Cry Me a River; Goodbye.

J.J. Johnson, Trombone; Nat Adderley, Cornet; Tommy Flanagan, Piano; Wilbur Little, Paul Chambers, Sam Jones, Basses; Albert Heath, Max Roach, Louis Hayes, Drums; Victor Feldman, Vibes.