Billy Byers - The Jazz Workshop (2013)

In December 1955, American jazz musicians led by trombonist and arranger Billy Byers completed a series of three studio recording sessions in New York City to produce the album The Jazz Workshop, originally released on RCA Victor. For this project, Billy Byers crafted original arrangements, blending his own compositions with classic jazz standards.

The recording sessions featured distinct instrumental lineups made up of prominent figures from the New York cool jazz and swing scenes. The core rhythm section across all three sessions consisted of bassist Milt Hinton, drummer Osie Johnson, and pianist Moe Welscher. Depending on the musical focus of each session, the ensembles ranged from a heavy trombone-driven group featuring Urbie Green and saxophonist Al Cohn, to a septet with alto saxophonist Phil Woods, as well as a chamber jazz lineup featuring strings, cello, and marimba. Complemented by cover photography from Lee Friedlander and liner notes by critic Leonard Feather, the release showcases refined orchestral jazz arranging from the mid-1950s.

Tracklist:
1. Billy Byers - Alone Together
2. Billy Byers - The Tickler
3. Billy Byers - Billy Bones
4. Billy Byers - Chinese Water Torture
5. Billy Byers - I See a Million People
6. Billy Byers - Back In Your Own Back Yard
7. Billy Byers - The Funky Music Box
8. Billy Byers - The Great Rationalization
9. Billy Byers - Sunday
10. Billy Byers - Misty Osie
11. Billy Byers - Thou Swell
12. Billy Byers - You're Mine You