Buddy DeFranco - Generalissimo + Live Date! (2008)

Two lesser-known 50s sides by Buddy DeFranco – both recorded for Verve in 1958, both featuring small combo west coast backing! Generalissimo has a sound that's a lot more understated than its title – an easygoing groove that's all Buddy all the way – clarinet in the lead, inspired by an older swing-based approach to jazz, yet still inflected with some boppish influences too – all in just the sort of open, laidback style that Verve was handling well at the time. Other players include Harry Edison on trumpet, Bob Hardaway on tenor, Jimmy Rowles on piano, Barney Kessel on guitar, Curtis Counce on bass, and Alvin Stoller on drums – on titles that include "Sunday", "Tea For Two", "Blue Lou", "Funky's Uncle", and an extended Verve-type "Ballad Medley". Next up is the even better Live Date – a very hip session that has Buddy working with some of the fresher modern players on the scene at the time – all in a groove that echoes with some of the sharpest notes we've heard from his clarinet in the 50s! The ensemble has a really dreamy feel – with flute from Herbie Mann, vibes from Victor Feldman, tenor from Bob Hardaway, guitar from Barney Kessel, and piano and organ from Pete Jolly – all backed by rhythm from the legendary Scott LaFaro on bass and Stan Levey on drums. Tracks include "Satin Doll", "Oh Lady Be Good", "Crazy Rhythm", "Blues For Space Travelers", and "My Funny Valentine". Note: CD omits one track from Live Date – "Tin Reed Blues" – but it is featured on the Lonehill CD set I Hear Benny Goodman & Artie Shaw.