The James Moody and Hank Jones Quartet: Our Delight

James Moody and Hank Jones have had limited contact with each other, insofar as performing and recording music is concerned. However, they seem to be quite familiar as they perform twelve songs that are either standards or compositions closely associated with them as musicians.

Moody, on tenor saxophone and flute, and pianist Jones, are joined by Todd Coolman on the bass, and drummer Adam Nussbaum, to form The James Moody and Hank Jones Quartet. While Moody and Jones have lived through the development of modern jazz, Our Delight brings the foursome together in a straight-ahead session.

"Birk's Works" is an easygoing, swinging piece written by John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie, with whom Moody played during the 1940s. The tenor expresses freely while the bass, drums and piano underscore. Jones' solo is indeed delightful, but Coolman and Nussbaum get their solos in as well. The latter goes without accompaniment.

Sonny Stitt's "Eternal Triangle" is a bouncy track. Moody shows off his dexterity, playing multiple notes in fractions of seconds—all with precision. Jones follows with equal verve, while the bass and drums mix it up in the background.

"Darben the Red Foxx," penned by Moody, features him on the flute with the same flair as he gives on the tenor. The title is a nod to the late comedian, Redd Foxx, and the lighthearted melody is engaging. Jones contributes a solo as well.

Moody and Jones play off each other quite well. Coolman and Nussbaum also add their touches, but without distracting from the leads. Our Delight captures the essence of old-school jazz without sounding old.