Jazz
Mike Melvoin - Liner Notes, Piano, Producer
Bill Goodwin - Drums
Phil Woods - Clarinet, Sax (Alto)
Steve Gilmore - Bass
* Alan Atterbury - Executive Producer
* Chris Barr - Photography
* David Basse - Producer
* Hank Cicalo - Engineer, Mastering, Mixing, Producer
* Kathryn Buckley - Art Direction, Design
* Larry Ashley - Executive Producer
* Mike Stern - Mastering
* Paul Wickliffe - Engineer
* William Claxton - Photography
This fine set from Los Angeles-based jazz and studio pianist Mike Melvoin is particularly special, for it features the great altoist Phil Woods as a sideman on the majority of the selections. Melvoin also utilizes Woods' regular bassist and drummer (Steve Gilmore and Bill Goodwin) on the five standards and his six straight-ahead originals. Melvoin's technique is impressive, he always swings, and he fits solidly into the modern mainstream of jazz. Woods, who did not record all that much in the early 21st century, is heard in prime form throughout, playing with fire and creativity while clearly enjoying the opportunity to be the star on someone else's date. And his spot on clarinet on "I'm Confessin'" is quite effective. All in all, this is a satisfying effort from the underrated Melvoin, and will be a joyful listen for fans of modern swinging jazz.
---Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
Mike Melvoin
Active Decades: '60s, '70s, '80s, '90s and '00s
Born: May 10, 1937 in Oshkosh, WI
Genre: Jazz
Styles: Big Band, Cool, Swing, Post-Bop, Hard Bop
Because he is based in Los Angeles and has worked extensively in the studios, pianist Mike Melvoin has not yet gained the fame that he deserves for his impressive technique and strong jazz improvising talents. He began playing piano when he was three but graduated from Dartmouth in 1959 with a degree in English. However, Melvoin soon chose to become a professional musician. He moved to Los Angeles in 1961 and worked with many top West Coast players and performers including Frank Rosolino, Leroy Vinnegar, Gerald Wilson, Paul Horn, Terry Gibbs, Joe Williams, Peggy Lee and many others. Although busy in the studios, Melvoin recorded for Concord in the mid-'70s (with Herb Ellis and Plas Johnson), has worked occasionally in L.A. area clubs and often teams up with singer Bill Henderson. Melvoin led two albums for Liberty in 1966 and one for Discwasher in 1979.
---Scott Yanow, All Music Guide |
