LESTER YOUNG
The Jazz Giants (Verve)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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If you don't know about Lester Young, you have no idea what you're missing. Young, known simply as "Prez," is truly one of the giants of Jazz. From the beginning of his career, he introduced a new approach, style and sound to the genre and to tenor saxophone. Even now, forty to fifty years after some of his solos were recorded, they sound as fresh and inventive as ever. For me, listening to Young is as close to zen as jazz gets; I find myself so thoroughly in the present moment, I'm unaware of the passage of time or the little worries of daily life. I constantly find myself smiling with joy at something unexpected yet lyrical in one of Young's sound poems.

Young's playing did deteriorate in the 1950's as a result of mental illness and a life of prolong hardship. However, if given the proper surroundings and band mates, Young could still play like an angel. And make no mistake, The Jazz Giants is one of those moments. Recorded in 1956 (the next day found Lester recording another gem Prez and Teddy), Young was joined by his friends and contemporaries Vic Dickenson on trombone, the great Roy Eldridge on trumpet, Teddy Wilson on piano, Freddie Green on guitar, Gene Ramey on bass, and Jo Jones on drums.

The music these giants created is timeless. Everyone is relaxed and in top form on four standards and one scorching blues. Its hard to single out any particular memorable moment since there are many, but Eldridge's solos are blistering. As for Young, at the end of his career, he sounds as creative, vital and spontaneous as always. His solos on each of the numbers are riveting and ethereal. Transcending all the pain in his life, Young left the world a better place; full of exquisite beauty. Lester Young - The Jazz Giants. Highly Recommended.

Track List:

I Guess I'll Have To Change My Plan; I Didn't Know What Time It Was; Gigantic Blues; This Year's Kisses; You Can Depend On Me.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich