LENNIE NIEHAUS
Vol. 1: The Quintets (Contemporary/OJC)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Lennie Niehaus, a very good alto saxophonist, first attracted attention as a soloist and arranger for Stan Kenton. He achieved additional notice for his scoring of the music for two Clint Eastwood films, "Play Misty For Me" and "Bird". Niehaus, a member of the West Coast jazz scene, has a cool tone on sax that is warmer than Lee Konitz but not as passionate as Art Pepper.

Vol. 1: The Quintets, Niehaus' first solo album, has recently been reissued by Original Jazz Classics. The standards and five Niehaus originals were recorded in Los Angeles in 1954. Joining Niehaus on eight numbers were Jack Montrose on tenor, Bob Gordon on baritone, Monty Budwig on bass, and Shelly Manne on drums. For the remaining four tunes, Niehaus plays with Stu Williamson on trumpet and valve trombone, Hampton Hawes on piano, Red Mitchell on bass, and Shelly Manne on drums. These sessions produced some great jazz, exhibiting the classic West Coast sound of tight arrangements, terse solos, and a strong rhythm section. Niehaus has a wonderful ear for arranging songs, resulting in fresh, attractive music that produces an intimate mood. His own songs are interesting yet challenging. All the band members sound inspired, driven by the two great rhythm section of either Manne/Budwig or Manne/Mitchell.

Vol. 1: The Quintets had been out of print for awhile. It is once again available and worth purchasing for both Niehaus' playing and arranging. You won't be disappointed:

Play List:

I Remember You, Poinciana, Whose Blues, Prime Rib, I Should Care, Inside Out, I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me, You stepped Out Of A Dream, I'll Take Romance, Happy Times, Day By Day, Bottoms Up.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich