The Jim Hall Quartet - All Across The City (1989) [2003 SACD]

Jim Hall’s successful blend of contemporary & mainstream jazz should appeal to both camps on this well-crafted CD. Hall displays the subtle quiet lyricism that makes his guitar sound instantly identifiable. Gil Goldstein is a perfect choice on keyboards, because he uses synthesizer only to color rather than overpower a song, while avoiding schmaltz. Both “Beja-Flor” & the title track benefit from his contributions. Though his piano is frequently in the background, it matches Hall’s hushed, effective guitar lines. Bassist Steve La Spina & drummer Terry Clarke frequently lay out during the introductions & then enter to add either gentle shadings or full steam, if needed. One of Jim Hall’s best CDs.

Tracks:

01. Beija-Flor 06:30
02. Bemsha Swing 05:09
03. Prelude to a Kiss 04:48
04. Young One (For Debra) 04:24
05. R.E.M. State 05:32
06.J ane 04:56
07. All Across the City 05:26
08. Drop Shot 05:29
09. How Deep Is the Ocean ? 03:26
10. Something Tells Me 04:57
11. Big Blues 06:26

Personnel:

Jim Hall (guitar)
Gil Goldstein (keyboards)
Steve La Spina (bass)
Terry Clarke (drums)