Paul Desmond - Desmond Blue (1997)

Altoist Paul Desmond plays beautifully as usual throughout his collaboration with a string section (plus woodwinds and harp) arranged by Bob Prince. Guitarist Jim Hall also has some good spots, but Prince's arrangements are often overblown, overbearing, and much more dated than the solos. In fact, there is not a single place on the set where the music would not have been improved by the absence of the strings and woodwinds. Desmond gets in some good solos (particularly on "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Body and Soul," and "Autumn Leaves"), but his other meetings with Hall come more highly recommended.
- Scott Yanow

Tracklist:
1.01 - Paul Desmond - My Funny Valentine (3:51)
1.02 - Paul Desmond - Desmond Blue (3:39)
1.03 - Paul Desmond - Then I'll Be Tired of You (4:04)
1.04 - Paul Desmond - I've Got You Under My Skin (4:51)
1.05 - Paul Desmond - Late Lament (4:09)
1.06 - Paul Desmond - I Should Care (3:49)
1.07 - Paul Desmond - Like Someone in Love (4:11)
1.08 - Paul Desmond - Ill Wind (3:49)
1.09 - Paul Desmond - Body and Soul (4:53)
1.10 - Paul Desmond - Advise and Consent (2:01)
1.11 - Paul Desmond - Autumn Leaves (5:43)
1.12 - Paul Desmond - Imagination (4:04)