Chet Baker - Mr. B (1983) [2015 Timeless Jazz Master Collection] CD-Rip

The quality of Chet Baker's product was so varied during the last decade or more of his life that recording sessions varied markedly. For this "remixed version" of Mr. B Baker sounds a tad tired, though his chops are in fine form. The studio recording captures the trumpeter with highly sympathetic and self-effacing pianist Michel Grallier and bassist Ricardo Del Fra, both of whom engage in the leader's brand of sensitivity. There are no vocals by the trumpeter, but plenty of improvising.

The interesting tune selection features a few songs played often by Baker (such as Wayne Shorter's "Dolphin Dance" and Horace Silver's "Strollin'"), but several that are not associated with him at all (Grallier's "White Blues" and his gorgeous "Father X-mas," to name a couple). There is a sadness permeating the trumpeter's sound throughout, exacerbated by the lazy, sometimes sluggish, tempos. A deep and touching beauty can be felt, marking this as one of Chet's best from the period.

Tracks:

01 - Dolphin Dance
02 - Ellen And David
03 - Strollin'
04 - In Your Own Sweet Way
05 - Mister.B
06 - Beatrice
07 - White Blues
08 - Father X-mas

Personnel:

Chet Baker - trumpet
Michel Graillier - piano
Ricardo Del Fra - bass
Philip Catherine - gutar (track 8)