A - Z of Jazz...
Listen as I take a trip through the alphabet of jazz. Each show I'll chose an influential artist for each letter, playing some of their key recordings and talking about their life and influence on the jazz world.
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An alto saxophone player from florida. He came to the height of fame during the 50's and 60's 'Hard Bop' Era. He was the first from a musical family, his brother Nat went on to become a jazz trumpet player who he played with extensively. Key recordings include 'Something Else' a blue note session he led with players from the Miles Davis sextet and 'Live at The Club' a key soul-jazz record featuring Joe Zawinul on electric keyboards and the definitive version of 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy' which was popularised by Adderley.

Pianist and one of the pioneers of the 'cool jazz' movement. Brubeck was initially taught piano by his mother, never planning to become a professional musician, but his talent was too great to ignore. After a stint in the army, he formed his first trio in 1951. The group grew in popularity, releasing up to four albums a year in the 60's. Key recordings include their album 'Time Out' written after a tour of Eurasia, inspired by traditional eastern folk music, experimenting with different time signatures. For something fun and a bit lighter, 'Dave Digs Disney' is a nice record!

Easy to forget players who weren't necessarily leading all the sessions, but arguably a solid rhythm section is as equally important. Our choice for C is one of the great jazz bass players: Paul Chambers. Although his time was only short, he recorded over in 200 sessions appearing many pioneering albums including Kind of Blue and Giant Steps. Chambers had an impeccable tense of time, great intonation and one of the first bass players to take virtuosic solos. He was part of two great 'rhythm sections' during his 33 years. The first with Red Garland and Philly Joe Jones, the later with Wynton Kelly and Jimmy Cobb. His contribution to jazz in the 50s and 60s was immense, you won't struggle to find a session which he contributed to!
Albums of the Week...