Search - Monty Alexander, Ray Brown, Herb Ellis :: Straight Ahead

Stellar reissue

Rob Watkins | Augusta, Georgia United States | 05/04/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"concord jazz deserves all sorts of kudos for their "twofer" approach to reissues, rereleasing old LPs as double cd's at a budget price. great job!now to this reissue--mr. alexander, mr. brown, and mr. ellis flat out cook on both sessions included here. at times, they sound like the old oscar peterson trio featuring ellis and brown from the 50s, with mr. alexander making runs and scales that capture you from the first roll. mr. ellis is an underrated guitarist because he sometimes is written off as not being daring enough, but listen to him here. he swings like jesus is coming! ray brown needs nothing more said about him than has already been said. he makes the bass sing, kepping time, but also pushing everybody to play well and keep jumping. his own solos are sweet and pure. this was a great trio and these tracks will satisfy any jazz fan. have fun!"

Who needs a drum kit?!

kiwimuzo | Auckland, New Zealand | 01/11/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The blurb on the CD cover states that this re-release is proof a jazz trio can still be rhythmically captivating without a drummer and, having listened to it a few times now, I'm more than inclined to agree. Jamican pianist Monty Alexander has been one of my favourites for several years, and this double-album captures the essence of his fresh, energetic improvising style. The amazingly talented Ray Brown (bass) and Herb Ellis (guitar) ensure musical success on every track. There are some really clever arrangements (especially "Sweet Georgia Brown") and the emphasis is always on letting the music speak for itself, rather than trying to drown it in over-the-top ornamentation. Vibrant, fun, gleeful - a sure-fire winner!"