CURTIS FULLER
Blues-ette (Savoy Jazz)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

---

Blues-ette is superb group jazz at its collective best with every song a winner. A reissue of a 1959 hard bop date with Curtis Fuller on trombone, Benny Golson on tenor sax, Tommy Flanagan on piano, Jimmy Garrison on piano and Al Harewood on drums, Blues-ette features flawless articulation and outstanding interplay among band members. Each artist was at the top of his game when this music was originally recorded, and the results prove it. A year later, Fuller and Golson would add Art Farmer on trumpet and substitute McCoy Tyner on piano, Addison Farmer on bass, and Lex Humphries on drums and produce another classic of the genre, aptly titled Meet The Jazztet.

Few jazz sessions combine such eloquent ensemble playing with solos of extraordinary innovation. Blues-ette does this, and as a result, it is one of those rare recordings you hate to see end. Somehow, the music improves with each successive listen, as the complexities and nuances come to light. A formidable recording indeed, it sounds timeless. Highest recommendation.

Track List:

Five Spot * After Dark * Undecided * Blues-ette * Minor Vamp * Love Your Spell Is Everywhere * Twelve-Inch * Blues-ette (alternate take) * Five Spot After Dark (alternate take)

© 2004 - Ron Saranich