Search - Phil Woods :: The Rev And I

In the world of athletics, a veteran's poise and experience will only take him as far as his physical skills will allow, but jazz musicians can compensate for diminished dexterity (if any) through intelligence, conviction, and depth. Alto Phil Woods, tenor Johnny Griffin, pianist Cedar Walton, and drummer Ben Riley were all "young lions" of hard bop in the 1950s, and with (relatively) young bassist Peter Washington, they've got wisdom to spare. It's hard to believe that it took until 1998 for Woods to make his Blue Note debut as a leader, but he's clearly inspired by the esteemed company. Woods unearths "I'm So Scared of Girls When They're Good Looking" and delivers a solo that's both passionate and playful. Griffin's reading of Ellington's "All Too Soon" adds a bit of grit to the tenderness. All team for a gorgeous version of Woods's original "Dutch Morning." Jazz is indeed the rare sport in which the growth of the players can be limitless and the old-timers can give the current all-stars a serious run. --Marc Greilsamer