RED GARLAND
Red Garland's Piano (Original Jazz Classics)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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It's been said before, but bears repeating. Every serious jazz collection needs several Red Garland cds. Red Garland's Piano should be near the top of the list. Recorded during a four month period in 1956 and 1957, it was Garland's third session as a leader (he was still a member of Miles Davis' quintet). For these eight classic standards, Garland was joined by Paul Chambers on bass and Art Taylor on drums. These guys could flat out play, and the rapport among them was remarkable.

The music, which is straight ahead jazz at its finest, was a perfect example of the piano trio in action. Never does this music fail to hold one's interest. The more it's heard, the more it reveals its complexity, nuances, and eloquence. It's one of those rare musical sessions that improves with each subsequent listening.

My two favorite songs are the opening number "Please send Me Someone To Love" - the old Percy Mayfield blues ballad. At almost ten minutes, its an amazingly irresistible version full of sensuality and urgency. "Almost Like Being In Love," another classic tune, is unforgettable. Whenever I play Red's version of this song for someone, hours later I hear them humming the melody. It simply grabs your aural attention and refuses to let go.

Fans of great music, regardless of the genre, should love this cd. I recommend its purchase without reservation.

Song List:
Please Send Me Someone To Love; Stompin' At The Savoy; The Very Thought Of You; Almost Like Being In Love; If I Were A bell; I Know Why; I Can't Give You Anything But Love; But Not For Me.

© 2001 - Ron Saranich