Search - Chet Baker :: Chet Baker Sextet

Chet Sings When He's Not Singing

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 01/04/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"My initial introduction to Chet Baker was via one of his many "Sings" albums and it was an immediate turn off. So for years despite the critical acclaim, I neglected a true jazz masterpiece like "Chet." Well I have since come around to enjoy some of his efforts, including the fine discs he made for the Pacific label with Gerry Mulligan and Art Pepper, and this recently reissued title "Sextet." Tracks 1-8 comprising the original LP are from two September 1954 sessions featuring Chet on trumpet, Bob Brookmeyer on valve trombone, Bud Shank on baritone sax, Russ Freeman on piano, Carson Smith on bass and Shelly Manne on drums. The selections are arranged by Jack Montrose, Johnny Mandel or Bill Holman, and needless to say the playing is tight! The remaining four tracks come from a "lost" December 1957 date featuring a drumless unit of Baker, Jimmy Buffington on French horn, Gene Allen on bass clarinet, Bob Tricarico on bassoon, Seymour Barab on cello and Russ Savakus on bass. Pianist Bob Zieff arranged these modern jazz chamber works, and they are quite interesting. In all, after hearing solid albums like this one by Chet Baker, I am happy to finally "sing" his praises."