Art Pepper - Unreleased Art, Volume 1: The Complete Abashiri Concert
Artist: Art Pepper
Title: Art Pepper: Unreleased Art, Volume 1: The Complete Abashiri Concert
Reviewed by Eddie Becton
At one time, saxophonist Art Pepper's name was synonymous with illicit drugs, alcoholism, and penal recidivism. At other times, he was well known as one of the most astute saxophonists whose name was often echoed in the same breath as the musically God-like saxophonist Charlie Parker's. While Pepper had his share of hard knocks in life, what cannot be ignored is how he crafted one of the most passionate, emotional cries from his axe. So, Pepper fans can relish the newly released Art Pepper: Unreleased Art Volume 1. Thanks to the Herculean efforts of Pepper's widow, Laurie Pepper, this two-disc gem is comprised of previously unreleased material from a live Abashiri, Japan performance in 1981, not long before the saxophonist's death.
Arguably, the most beautiful tune on either disc is the standard Body & Soul. Pepper pours his lyrical soul out on this track and reminds listeners why he was often considered one of jazz's most passionate lyricists. As well, Cables' solo is absolutely spellbinding and contributes to the tune's passionate and emotional currents. At the tune's conclusion, Pepper states, "That was one of the nicest things I think I've played in my life
" Indeed, and the live audience shows its appreciation with a rousing applause that leaves Pepper and crew giddy with ebullient chuckling.
Pepper also pays tribute to one of his most favorite composers, pianist Thelonious Monk. Pepper, who long admired Monk, masters a version of Rhythm-A-Ning. This spirited piece captures Monk's mood thanks to yeoman's work by George Cables on piano and a bombastic performance by Carl Burnett on drums. Another well-done piece is the soothing yet fiery Besame Mucho where the band again demonstrates its penchant for cohesive harmony and perfectly executed lines. Hell, even the volcanic introduction is worth the price of admission.
Currently, this monumental release is only available at: www.straightlife.info and www.cdbaby.com. This is not only a "must have" for its historical significance as being previously unreleased. But, even more important, this is a "must have" because it is simply Pepper at his best. Since this two-disc set is comprised of Volume 1 tunes, undoubtedly Pepper fans' hearts will smile as they salivate at the notion of ensuing volumes. And, according to Laurie, "I want to contact the living band members so they can share this moment of history. I've not forgotten what they've done for Art."
Track Listing: Landscape/ Besame Mucho/ Red Car/ Goodbye/ Straight Life/ Road Waltz/ For Freddie Part 1/ For Freddie Part 2/ Body & Soul/ Talking/ Rhytm-A-Ning/ Blues Encore
Personnel: Art Pepper alto saxophone; George Cables piano; David Williams bass; Carl Burnett drums.