Art Farmer Featuring Gigi Gryce CD

Digitally remastered by Phil De Lancie (1992, Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, California).

This title is one of two excellent recordings trumpeter Art Farmer made with Gigi Gryce in the mid-'50s. Gryce not only contributes some fine alto solos but also provides the majority of the material and arrangements. Standouts like his cool, mid-tempo swinger "Satellite" and the Latin-tinged "Sans Souci" provide excellent solo vehicles for both Farmer and pianist Duke Jordan. In fact, the predominantly cool material seems to fit everybody quite well, as evidenced by the stellar ensemble playing on all the tracks (special mention goes to drummer Philly Joe Jones and bassist Addison Farmer [Art's brother] for their particularly empathetic and consistent rhythmic support). Up-tempo cuts like Jordan's "Forecast" and Gryce's "Nica's Tempo" round out a set that qualifies as one of Farmer's best. A must for every jazz collection. ~ Stephen Cook

During 1955, trumpeter Art Farmer had a short-lived quintet with altoist Gigi Gryce, but because neither of the co-leaders were big names at the time, the band did not last long. Fortunately, they did record two albums of material, of which this CD reissue (originally known as Evening in Casablanca) was the second. In addition to Farmer and Gryce, the unit includes pianist Duke Jordan, bassist Addison Farmer, and drummer Philly Joe Jones. With the exception of Duke Jordan's "Forecast," the cool-toned hard bop date consists entirely of Gryce compositions, of which "Evening in Casablanca" and "Nice's Tempo" are best known. Excellent music well deserving a close listen. ~ Scott Yanow



Recorded at the Van Gelder Studio, Hackensack, New Jersey on October 21, 1955. Originally released on Prestige (7017). Includes liner notes by Ira Gitler.

Art Farmer Quintet: Art Farmer (trumpet); Gigi Gryce (alto saxophone); Duke Jordan (piano); Addison Farmer (bass); Philly Joe Jones (drums).

Personnel: Art Farmer (trumpet); Gigi Gryce (alto saxophone); Duke Jordan, Freddie Redd (piano); Philly Joe Jones (drums).

Recording information: Hackensack, NJ (10/21/1955).