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Harry Allen / Scott Hamilton: ‘Round Midnight
ByLeading off with the 1912 composition "My Melancholy Baby," the two tenors establish themselves with predictable smooth play, ably engaged by a superb rhythm section that prominently features pianist Rossano Sportiello. Allen's "Great Scott," whether a tribute to Hamilton or not, is certainly the disc's first lively spot, offering plenty of saxophone fireworks as well as steady and solid backup from drummer Chuck Riggs. "The Opener" begins with a terrific saxophone harmony and features bassist Joel Forbes's solid ,heavy chords.
The centerpiece of the album, the great bossa nova standard "Baubles, Bangles and Beads," provides both saxophonists solo opportunities that turn out to be the recording's highlight. After discussing their wish to perform "Lockjaw" Davis' "Hey Lock" for years, the duo finally records it here as an enjoyable mid-tempo romp. Rodgers and Hart's "Lover" and Neal Hefti's "Flight of the Foo Birds" definitely lend some bopping moments to the date.
The two saxophonists cap off what is, in general, an invigorating session of jazz with pianist Thelonious Monk' oft-recorded title track, closing a session of invigorating music with one last tender moment. On Round Midnight, this dynamic duo leads a very vibrant group in performing its best impressions of the twin-tenor quintets of years past, successfully adding Harry Allen and Scott Hamilton to that prestigious list of jazz ensembles.
Track Listing
My Melancholy Baby; Great Scott; How Am I To Know; The Opener; Baubles, Bangles and Beads; Hey Lock; Lover; Flight Of The Foo Birds; 'Round Midnight.
Personnel
Harry Allen
saxophoneHarry Allen: tenor saxophone; Scott Hamilton: tenor saxophone; Rossano Sportiello: piano; Joel Forbes: bass; Chuck Riggs: drums.
Album information
Title: ‘Round Midnight | Year Released: 2013 | Record Label: Challenge Records
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