The CD reissues of the two albums titled
The Amazing Bud Powell
put the important recordings in chronological order (which they weren't in the LP versions) and add some alternate takes; all of the music has also been included in a definitive four-CD box set. Although the latter is the best way to acquire the important performances, this CD gives one a strong sampling of pianist
Bud Powell
at his best.
Powell
is heard in a classic session with trumpeter
Fats Navarro
and tenor saxophonist
Sonny Rollins
(which is highlighted by exciting versions of
"Dance of the Infidels,"
"52nd Street Theme,"
and
"Bouncing With Bud"
) and in a trio performing
"Over the Rainbow"
and three versions of his intense
"Un Poco Loco."
~ Scott Yanow