Search - J.J. Johnson, Al Grey :: Things Are Getting Better All the Time

A masterful album from two veterans

Phillip Johnson | Melbourne, Australia | 03/26/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album is a meeting of two of the great trombone players from the bop era. Both J.J. and Grey are Count Basie alumnus, and it is no surprise that the Count would have had these guys in his band. It is demonstrated on this album time and time again just how good J.J. and Grey are.The CD opens with a classic Benny Goodman tune, Soft Winds. It is played at a frenetic break-neck speed and both the trombonists pull out great solos. There are a good mix of tracks on the CD; fast swinging numbers; slow ballads, such as track 3 and 4; and funky numbers, such as tracks 7 and 8. The diversity of the music played on this album demonstrates how versatile both the leaders are. The all-star rythm section are not over shadowed by the two horn men. Barron plays an especially brilliant solo on "Let Me See" and Ray Brown shows why he is considered a master of the upright bass on track 7. Throughout the album Grey muted (his trademak) and J.J plays open, allowing his brilliant tone to be revealed. This variation in timbre provides a fantastic textured feeling on all tracks. It is easy to hear the two distinct personalities of the trombonists in their solos.A must for any jazz fan."

A Master and His Friend

C. Lambert | Shreveport LA USA | 10/26/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"J. J. Johnson was one of my models growing up in the '50s and '60s. He has so many great ideas and such superb technique that listening to him play is a learning experience as well as an enjoyable one. The other player provides some interesting and entertaining moments."