Art Pepper
Winter Moon
Galaxy

Long forgotten in his catalogue, "Winter Moon" is one of those recordings that you hope that works, and fortunately does. Recorded back in 1980 (and just re-released and remastered by Concord records), this "sax and strings" release features the West Coast alto king surrounded by a sumptuous string section delivering an inspiring interpretations of originals and rare standards. Predominately arranged by Bill Holman, the strings blend sensitively with the regular quartet to create an inspiring tapestry of music.

Throughout the entire disc, Pepper seasons the music with his muscular, yet beguiling sax and clarinet. At one moment gentle and bluesy as on "Our Song", he purrs along and melds with Howard Robers' guitar and the struing section in an ecstatic and seductive "Here's That Rainy Day." On "When the Sun Comes Out", he pieces through the strings just like the sunset's last few rays on a cloudy dusk.The orchestra, lead by concertmaster Nate Rubin, is charged through a dramatic and clever reading of "Old Man River" which changes directions like the Mississippi changes currents, one moment slow and wear, the next roaring along with impenetrable force.

Rare is the artist who is able to expose his vulnerability in such a creative and challenging way. Such was the musical life of Art Pepper, whose release with strings belongs to the pantheon of his other essential releases.


-George W. Harris