Search - Dexter Gordon :: Dexter Calling

Not bad at all

Matt Bailey | SLC, Utah | 09/29/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a solid, competent, worthwhile album. Dexter Gordon is in fine form and is swinging hard. Paul Chambers, Philly Joe Jones (and whatever piano player who is with them) was the finest rhythm section in the 50's, bar none. In this case, the pianist is Kenny Drew, one of my favorites, and his solos are easily as luminous as the leader's. A good album, all the tunes are well played.



However, the reader should know that this is by no means an inspired cd. There are no "high points," and nothing that is especially memorable or "wow." That said, however, it is still worthwhile. Other Dexter Gordon albums are probably worth listening to first, however."

Solid throughout

R. J. Marsella | California | 08/09/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"With Dexter fronting a rhythm section of Kenny Drew , Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones you would expect nothing less than the results here. The playing is absolutely solid throughout and Dexter's tone and improvisational skill are both in full effect. There isn't one oustanding track in the sense that all of the selections are deftly handled by this quartet of consummate professionals. Nothing more nothing less."

Another Classic Blue Note by Dex

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 06/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After a brief absence, it is great to have "Dexter Calling" returned to the Blue Note catalog via the RVG series. The albums Dexter Gordon made for Blue Note in the 60s revived his career, and I believe they are his greatest lasting achievement. Since Dex had left the U.S. for Europe, he made his first four Blue Note albums in pairs during trips stateside. "Dexter Calling" and "Doin' Alright" were recorded days apart using different lineups, but getting the same excellent results, with the former only slightly behind in terms of overall quality. From the opening smooth bars of "Soul Sister," the band of Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers and Phily Joe Jones backs Dex with power and finesse. This rhythm trio knew how to treat a great tenor player -- they were responsible for backing 'Trane on "Blue Train" (see my review). My personal favorite song from the album is "Ernie's Tune," a lovely ballad that alternates between passion and tension for striking results. In conclusion, when Dexter's calling, we should all come over."