TADD DAMERON WITH
JOHN COLTRANE
Mating Call (Original Jazz Classics)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Recorded in 1956, Mating Call is a wonderful addition to anyone's Jazz library. Tadd Dameron, a marvelous composer and pianist, joined with John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, John Simmons on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums to produce a recording of timeless beauty. All six of the songs were written and arranged by Dameron, and the purity and strength of his vision and imagination shine throughout.

Coltrane was a fixture with the Miles Davis group at the time and 1956 was the year Davis and Coltrane recorded the classic series of Prestige albums: "Workin'," "Steamin'," "Cookin'," and "Relaxin'." Suffice to say, Coltrane was beginning to peak. It was a stroke of genius to pair Dameron with Coltrane, as Dameron's leadership brought out the poignantly lyrical side of Coltrane's horn playing. Coltrane stuck as close to the melody as possible for him, and he demonstrated a deftness combined with emotional honesty that sounds as great now as it must have 45 years ago. Philly Joe Jones, as always, smoldered with intensity on his drums.

This quartet is superb. If possible, listen to the way they interpreted "On A Misty Night." This number is hauntingly elegant, producing a reverie in me each and every time I hear it. Do yourself a favor and add this disc to your Jazz collection. Its been available for awhile, and once its gone, there's no guarantee it will be again issued in our lifetime.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich