Jazz / Cool; Latin Jazz; Post-Bop; Afro-Cuban Jazz
Recorded: May 19, 1961
In her recording debut, Mary Stallings more than held her own with one of the best bands Cal Tjader ever led. She was only 22 in 1961, but the native San Franciscan had been singing professionally since she was 15. All of the attributes that endear Stallings to audiences in the 21st century were in place—big voice, perfect diction, bluesy gospel tinge, and, above all, passionate feeling. This date helped launch an international career that included work with Billy Eckstine, Count Basie, and Dizzy Gillespie. The role of Tjader’s quartet is primarily one of support, but Tjader’s solos, Paul Horn’s flute, Clare Fischer’s arrangements, Lonnie Hewitt’s earthy piano, and the stalwart work of bassist Freddie Schreiber and drummer Johnny Rae make the album a must for Tjader fans. Bonus tracks present “Just in Time” and a stunning alternate take of “Why Don’t You Do Right?”
Cal Tjader - vibraphone
Mary Stallings - vocals
Paul Horn - flute
Lonnie Hewitt - piano, keyboards
Clare Fischer - piano
Victor Venegas - bass instrument
Freddie Schrieber - bass instrument
Johnny Rae - drums |
