Cannonball Adderley, Live in ’63 (Jazz Icons). Riding high on his success as a leader, the alto saxophonist was proud of his early 1960s sextet. These televised concerts capture him and his sidemen expansive and swinging. Yusef Lateef, Nat Adderley, Joe Zawinul, Sam Jones and Louis Hayes had integrated with Cannonball into one of the tightest small bands in jazz. Lateef was nearing the end of his tenure with the band, pleasing the audiences –and, clearly, Cannonball, too– with his solos on flute and tenor sax. In his later years, Zawinul went out of his way to disparage his playing during this period. Hearing him here, I can’t imagine why. Sound and black-and-white video quality are excellent.
Doug Ramsey on Jazz and other matters...
I was going to email you to tell you how much I loved your liner notes on the new Jazz Icons Oscar Peterson video and just saw your recommendation for the new Cannonball from the same series. I laughed because in all my uncontrollable excitement and focus on purchasing the Evans, Rollins and Peterson the minute they became available at my local Borders, I forgot to pre-order the Cannonball! That’s Ok for now, as I have 3 heavenly videos in my possession right now and will order the Cannonball on line today.
Thanks for the beautiful and informative liner notes. Since starting my jazz LP collection in the 70’s I’ve always treasured liner notes and do read them before playing the music. I was very much looking forward to playing the Peterson video and after reading your liner notes, I’m barely able to contain my excitement. So, I’ll make this short and get the DVD in my player right…now!