Jonah Jones
At The Embers
Mosaic Singles 17

George Wein
Is Alive And Well In Mexico
Mosaic Singles 18

Here’s a rare concept: a jazz musician that actually had popular mass appeal! Back in the late 50s, auburn toned trumpeter Jonah Jones put out a string of tastefully crafted albums that somehow clicked with the public. I know that immediately arouses suspicions, but believe me, this guy was no Kenny G! Supported by a stellar rhythm section, Jonah’s muted trumpet gorgeously embraces a sublime mix of standards and traditional war horses. His tight and crisp treatment of “Lullaby Of Birdland” and “All Of You” are concise and exciting. Drummer Harold Austin deserves cudos for his consistently clever treatment of each piece, particularly on the buoyant “It’s All Right With Me.” Smooth jazz, in the best sense of the term, is served here on the rocks.

Back in 1967, George Wein (who was better known as organizing the Newport Jazz Festival than playing piano) put together a swinging little band of his own for a tour of Mexico. Traditional all stars like Pee Wee Russell, Ruby Braff, Bud Freeman in the front line make this release a real treat, as everyone is in tip top form. What’s remarkably precious about this recording is how individualistic each artist is. Braff, Freeman and Russell sound only like themselves, both in tone and in style, as they gracefully blow through tunes like “If I Had You” and “All Of Me.” Wein gets lots of solo space as well, and leads the trio with bassist Jack Lesberg and drummer Don Lamond through a thrillingly creative reading of “Honeysuckle Rose.” But the heroes are the horn players, and they shine like the morning light. This disc includes almost a half hour of previously unreleased music, which is more important that any 5 recent new releases. Grab it and live! Both of these are limited editions, and available only through www.mosaicrecords.com.