CANNONBALL ADDERLEY
Things Are Getting Better
(Original Jazz Classics)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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The music on this cd was recorded in 1958, about a year or so before Cannonball Adderley's quintet rose to the top of the jazz world. Adderley, with the Miles Davis Group at the time, was trying to succeed as a leader in his own right. One of the greats on alto saxophone, he was joined for this session by Milt Jackson (vibes), Wynton Kelly (piano), Percy Heath (bass), and the great Art Blakey (drums).

The music is generally blues based, soulful renditions of hard bop with originals by Adderley and Jackson and several classics, including two dynamic versions of "The Sidewalks Of New York." Adderley's alto always had a jubilant, joyous sound that never failed to uplift his listeners, and this record is no exception. His happy mood was infectious. Adderley shared solo responsibility with Jackson and Kelly, and both of these consummate musicians responded with some exuberant playing of their own. Finally, the all-star rhythm section cooked while sounding quite relaxed.

Things Are Getting Better is an excellent place to start if you are interested in hearing how Adderley sounded while on sabbatical from the Miles Davis group. Though influenced by Charlie Parker, he remained an original. His emotional, romantic sound is one of the joys of jazz and this CD is a worthy addition to the Cannonball musical canon.

© 2000 - Ron Saranich