Search - Doc Cheatham, Sammy Price :: Duets & Solos

Doc and Sammy at their best

John C. Graham | toronto, ontario Canada | 08/01/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Two fine duet lp's and one superb solo piano record make up this outstanding 2cd set. "Doc & Sammy" comes from 1976, "Black Beauty" and "Sweet Substitude" from 1979. Transfers from these studio sessions are clean and clear. The music is phenomenal. It is delicate and graceful, full of charm with lyrical underpinnings that don't exist anymore. Sammy Price was a unique stylist who was steeped in the blues. His playing on these recordings ranges from the tender to the gritty and is always swinging. The solos may be some of his finest work. The duets are magic.

Doc Cheatham was in his prime. He had recently started his solo career as musician and world traveller. On two thirds of this 2 disc set you will hear his trumpet playing at its lyrical best. He plays a straight lead and solos with authority. Some of his finest playing can be found within this collection.

Doc Cheatham and Sammy Price were giants in the history of jazz. These recordings, from their autumn years, are to be cherished and savoured by anyone interested in the earlier forms of this music. It's a wonderful release and is highly recommended."