Jimmy Rowles - The Nocturne Session (Remastered) (2024)

James George Hunter (1918-1996), known professionally as Jimmy Rowles, epitomized the countless talented musicians whose professional careers were interrupted by World War II. Despite this setback, Rowles swiftly resumed his trajectory upon re-entering civilian life in 1946, showcasing exceptional talent that foreshadowed a prominent position within the national jazz music scene. Inspired by Teddy Wilson, Rowles delved into exhaustive studies of the renowned pianist's styling and technique.

Throughout his extensive career, Rowles became one of the most sought-after pianists in the Los Angeles recording studios, collaborating with virtually all of the city's top jazz musicians. He also earned acclaim as an accompanist for singers, frequently playing and recording with icons like Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Carmen McRae, who praised him as "the guy every singer in her right mind would like to work with."

This 1954 Jimmy Rowles trio recording session was originally intended for release on the Nocturne label, but the company folded, and it remained unreleased until 1956, when it was issued by Liberty Records under the title "Rare but Well Done." Nat Hentoff of Down Beat magazine awarded it four stars, hailing it as "one of the most satisfying piano recitals in many months." Additionally, four bonus tracks recorded by Jimmy in trio, quartet, and solo piano settings from 1956-57 are included here.

Jimmy Rowles was undoubtedly one of the great piano jazz improvisers, his style immediately recognizable among the few. He cultivated a phrasing flexibility akin to that of a horn player, with a remarkable sense of time and solo construction, and moreover, he possessed the ability to intensely communicate every human emotion through music.

—Jordi Pujol