KENNY DORHAM
Quiet Kenny (Prestige)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

---

Quiet Kenny is a 1959 bop session by trumpeter Kenny Dorham recently remastered in 20-bit sound. It was Dorham's only quartet album and he produced a beautifully intimate and romantic album using the same rhythm section John Coltrane had used on Giant Steps earlier in that year. Joining Dorham was Tommy Flannigan on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Arthur Taylor on drums.

The music consisted of three originals and five standards. Dorham shone throughout, but his work on "Alone Together" and "Old Folks" were highlights. On these two pieces, he sounded wonderfully evocative and emotional poignant. As always, Tommy Flannigan played brilliantly. The interplay between the four musicians heightened the relaxed, quiet mood.

Dorham stated that he picked all the tunes for this session "for their sentimental value." This record bears witness to Dorham's vision that feeling was more important than technical virtuosity or lightening fast tempo. Dorham is one of those jazz greats who has never been given his just due. He had a wonderful ability to emotionally move people through his trumpet playing. Put Quiet Kenny on your cd player, sit back in your favorite chair, and simply enjoy the warm, soft mood that Dorham and his bandmates created over forty years ago.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich