Art Farmer & Benny Golson - Meet the Jazztet (1960)

Although this CD has the same program as the original LP, it gets the highest rating because it is a hard bop classic. Not only does it include superior solos from trumpeter Art Farmer, trombonist Curtis Fuller, tenor saxophonist Benny Golson, and pianist McCoy Tyner (who was making his recording debut) along with fine backup from bassist Addison Farmer and drummer Lex Humphries, but it features the writing of Golson. Highlights include the original version of "Killer Joe" along with early renditions of "I Remember Clifford" and "Blues March." This was Fuller and Tyner's only recording with the original Jazztet, and all ten selections (which also include "Serenata," "It Ain't Necessarily So," "It's All Right With Me," and "Easy Living") are quite memorable.

Scott Yanow

http://www.allmusic.com/album/meet-the-jazztet-r138558

1. Serenata

2. It Ain't Necessarely So

3, Avalon

4. I Remember Clifford

5. Blues March

6. It's All Right With Me

7. Park Avenue Petite

8. Mox Nix

9. Easy Living

10. Killer Joe

Art Farmer (tp), Benny Golson (ts), Curtis Fuller (tb), McCoy Tyner (p), 

Addison Farmer (b), Lex Humphries (d)

Mal Waldron Mal 4 (1958)

It seems strange that this, pianist Mal Waldron's seventh session as a leader, was his first with a group as small as his trio. With the assistance of bassist Addison Farmer and drummer Kenny Dennis, Waldron performs four standards and three of his moody originals. His sometimes-brooding style was already quite recognizable and his inventive use of repetition was quite impressive. This recording gives listeners a definitive look at the early style of Mal Waldron. 

Review Scott Yanow

http://www.allmusic.com/album/mal-4-trio-r149614

1. Splidium Dow

2. Like Someone In Love 

3. Get Happy

4. J.M.'s Dream Doll

5. Too Close For Comfort

6. By Myself

7. Love Span

Mal Waldron (p) Addison Farmer (b) Kenny Dennis (d)