Search - Zoot Sims :: Live in Philly

The smarts, style, and taste that earned Zoot Sims the ear of players and discerning jazz fans alike are exhibited throughout this long-unissued live set from the early 1970s. The California-born saxophonist came to prominence in the 1950s, but he remained a prime performer right up to his death in 1985 at the age of 59. Here, backed by pianist Benny Aronov, bassist Major Holley, and drummer Mickey Roker, Sims works his way through an Ellington-heavy set with a relaxed but never disinterested air. Using tenor and soprano saxes, Sims turns the spotlight over to Holley, who makes "Polka Dots and Moonbeams" a bow-singing showcase, and allows Aronov to shine throughout a nine-minute version of "I Don't Stand a Ghost of a Chance with You." Live in Philly isn't an earth-shattering recording; it simply illustrates the pure pleasure that comes when a confident and gifted leader on a given night has a solid set of sidemen and a lovely repertoire at his disposal. --Steven Stolder