Ahmad Jamal: Then and Now…

Ahmad Jamal Trio
The Complete Ahmad Jamal Trio Argo Sessions
Mosaic Records
www.mosaicrecords.com
By George W. Harris

Well, have you bought this yet? Are you waiting for my review?!? Consider this a vindication of your purchase, my friend.

Don’t ask why, but Ahmad Jamal (who’s still alive, well, and playing incredibly wonderful music) is not nearly as popular or famous (and therefore rich?) as his influence has been. His spacious yet rhythmic playing, use of dynamics and sound and devotion to melody set the groundwork for Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and McCoy Tyner, to name just a few. This sumptuous 9 disc set covers all of the studio and concert material he did for Argo from 1956-62, and to say the least, it is music that you’ll never get tired of hearing on a plethora of levels.

The classic trio of Jamal with Vernal Fournier/d and Israel Crosby/b is preceded by a ‘56 trio date with drummer Walter Perkins, which are fine and serviceable on tunes like “Green Dolphin Street” and “Easy To Remember,” but they simply lay the foundation for the symbiotic interplay that Fournier brings to the table 15 months later. This is THE band that is featured at The Spotlight in DC (’58), The Blackhawk in SFO (‘62), The Alhambra in Chicago (‘61) and the justifiably classic gig at the Pershing Lounge in Chicago (’58). It is in this concert format that Jamal’s trio sets the standard for sublime yet incessant swing, intricate interplay and an orchestral view of volume control. A tune like “Broadway,” from the Alhambra gig delivers a textbook example; Fournier and Crosby lay down an irresistible groove, while Jamal goes from minimalist Basie to cocktail lounge Wilson to double fisted Ammons without jamming the gears. His treatment of “Surrey With The Fringe On Top” from the Pershing release displays his bop chops and humor, while the radio hit “Poinciana” has arguably influenced more jazz trios than any other song. By the time of their last recorded concert recording at The Blackhawk, their interplay was bordering on the telepathic with each guy completing the other’s statements as on “Like Someone In Love.”

Quite intriguing are the sessions with adjuncts, as the string session in 1960 that produces an effusive version of “Tangerine” and “Ahmad’s Blues,” and a quintet with guitarist Ray Crawford and violinist Joe Kennedy for some riveting music which includes “Yesterdays” and “Valentia.” Crosby’s death in 1962 brought a sudden end to this trio, but there are 23 previously unissued tracks here, all approved by Jamal himself, which gives extra flavor to this filling and fulfilling meal. The informative booklet has fascinating liner notes by famed drummer Kenny Washington; hopefully starting a trend of musicians serving as writers for Mosaic. As always, these sets are limited edition, and this one’s only 5,000, so you better hurry. This is a set you’ll pass on to your grand kids, it’s simply timeless.