This previously unreleased live recording, from a 1974 Scandinavian tour, highlights the strong partnership of
Dexter Gordon
and trumpeter
Benny Bailey
. Backed by a European rhythm section, the two stretch out on four long tracks: an easygoing
"C Jam Blues,"
a
Bailey
ballad
feature on
"I Can't Get Started,"
and two
Gordon
originals, the minor-key
bop
vehicle
"Montmartre"
and the slow-grooving title track. Happily, the disc captures
in excellent form. From the very first minutes, his tonal command and forceful yet laid-back swing transport the listener.
's playing is extroverted, full of brash wit. One hates to sound like an old crank and say they don't make 'em like this anymore, but the feeling is practically unavoidable. There's a dramatic hike in volume six or so minutes into
"Montmartre,"
but otherwise the recording is unblemished. ~ David R. Adler