Continuing the Dolphy/Booker theme here with an album that I thought would take me forever to find as a true 1st pressing with the deep grooves and Abbey pressing ring on one side. The condition is like new, cover and vinyl. Absolutely amazing. To find the delicate 1st art textured cover in this condition is tough, to say the least. The LP sounds like new. Extremely happy to now own this title.
The music on this session is like you’d expect when it’s Dolphy and Booker sharing the stage, it’s wonderful and full of depth and passion. The album features one of my favorite rhythm sections, consisting of Ron Carter on double bass, Jaki Byard on piano and Roy Haynes on drums. Haynes plays the drums so tastefully, and his sound is always top notch. The snare and cymbal work is so delicate and airy. Jaki Byard is one of my favorite piano players. Him, along with Mal Waldron, Monk, Tommy Flanagan, McCoy Tyner to name but a few. Carter is a wonderful double bassist and cellist. Playing the bass here exclusively.
This is my kind of jazz for sure. There are a few wonderful titles in this kind of vein on the New Jazz label. Looking to acquire them all. Some of them are very difficult to find, like the title on display. Also, one that I really like to find is Mal Waldron’s “The Quest”. I’m keeping my eyes peeled for that one. I have Ron Carter’s “Where”, also very rare. Dolphy’s “Out There” is another one.
Favorite tune on “Far Cry” has to be “Left Alone” where Dolphy’s playing is sweet and melancholy. He sure knows how to play the flute. Another great one is “Miss Ann” where Dolphy and Booker both take superb solos. Booker’s solo on the opening track of Side 1, the Jaki Byard penned composition “Mrs. Parker of K.C. (Bird's Mother)”, is a joy to behold. And Dolphy’s unaccompanied alto solo on “Tenderly” is magical. The whole album is great, and keeps you interested all the way through. Highly recommended.
Got a question for you guys, as Christmas is coming soon: if you could choose one jazz LP from your want list/wish list, which one would you like to find under the Christmas tree this year?
Stay tuned for more vintage jazz vinyl treasures from the 50’s and 60’s… cheers and stay safe!