JACKIE MCLEAN
McLean's Scene (New Jazz/OJC)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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When Jackie McLean first began his professional career as an altoist at the beginning of the 1950s, he sounded similar to Charlie Parker. Like many of us, it took McLean awhile to find his own, original voice. In addition, McLean has stated he prefers the later work he recorded for Blue Note, feeling his early Prestige and New Jazz recordings were too loose, nothing more than mere ad hoc blowing sessions. However, "average" material by a great artist is still near the top of the genre, and McLean's Scene (recorded in 1957) is no exception. On three tunes, Mclean is joined by Bill Hardman on trumpet, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Arthur Taylor on drums. For the remaining three songs, McLean played with Mal Waldron on piano, Arthur Philips on bass, and Arthur Taylor on drums. The music, generally familiar standards and two McLean originals, was well played - though at times drifting into a somewhat perfunctory, normal workday feeling. However, the sound of McLean's alto never ceases to send shivers down my spine. The man had such an urgent, passionate, and full sound that expressed emotions wonderfully. Even average material shone in his hands. Take, for instance, the opening number "Gone With The Wind." McLeans startles the listener with his need to express himself. Its like he's about to burst trying to get his alto to play what he's feeling. As a result, the song sizzles with inspiration, resulting in one of the nest interpretations of this timeless classic. Jackie McLean was and still is a great musician, perhaps the best post-Bird alto player. Even his average recordings are worth purchasing to hear this consummate musician challenge himself and express his heartfelt emotions. Every serious jazz collection needs several McLean recordings.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich