LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

Jaki Byard (1922-1999) occupies a unique place in the history of jazz piano: he was at once a living encyclopedia of the instrument, capable of summoning the spirits of most of the grandmasters, and one of its most distinctive stylists. This disc pairs a 1968 date for pan-generational sextet date with a solo piano recording, both of which represent high-water marks in his long and extraordinary career. The solos find Byard's free associative brilliance and sharp wit given free reign, while the sextet brings together a one-time-only ensemble, featuring one of the all-time hippest string quartets. With Byard-the-arranger in charge, his first-stringers (Ellington violinist Ray Nance, guitarist George Benson, Ron Carter on cello, and bassist Richard Davis--plus old friend and colleague Alan Dawson on drums and vibes) go well beyond the typical blowing session, discovering continually fresh settings over which to soar.Spanish Tinge #2, Falling Rains of Life, Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?, Music to Watch Girls By, Medley (I Know a Place/Let the Good Times Roll), New Orleans Strut, Ray's Blues, Top of the Gate Rag, Seasons, How High the Moon, A Basin Street Ballad, The Hollis Stomp, Cat's Cradle Conference Ragwith Ray Nance, Ron Carter, George Benson, Richard Davis, Alan Dawson