COMPOSERS: Teddy Edwards
LABELS: Verve
WORKS: Tango in Harlem
PERFORMER: Teddy Edwards (ts); Christian McBride (b); Billy Higgins (d)
CATALOGUE NO: 527 468-2
In his most sympathetic recording situation for a while, and playing a judicious mix of standards and bluesy originals with a first class rhythm section, Teddy Edwards (who is 72 this month) has produced what is probably his finest album since Together Again! and Teddy’s Ready, the latter also featuring Billy Higgins. Edwards’s sound is elegant, deceptively easygoing and intensely melodic but is laced with enough post-bop astringency to lift him firmly out of the easy-listening category. On ballads such as ‘The Nearness of You’ and ‘Old Folks’, their momentum miraculously sustained through murderously slow tempos by excellent rhythm-section work, he savours every lingering note. On up-tempo, bustling pieces, his solos, while supremely logical, are imbued with his trademark relaxed swing. Christian McBride is deft and assured throughout, particularly in his bowed solos; Higgins is his customary sharp self. Overall, a superb performance from a mature master. Chris Parker
Teddy Edwards
In his most sympathetic recording situation for a while, and playing a judicious mix of standards and bluesy originals with a first class rhythm section, Teddy Edwards (who is 72 this month) has produced what is probably his finest album since Together Again! and Teddy’s Ready, the latter also featuring Billy Higgins. Edwards’s sound is elegant, deceptively easygoing and intensely melodic but is laced with enough post-bop astringency to lift him firmly out of the easy-listening category.
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 3:08 pm