Back catalogue: Jazz

Review: Recorded live at Basin Street in New York during 1954 and '55, this album highlights the tight interplay and smooth melodies that were hallmarks of Dave Brubeck and Paul Desmond's early work. Featuring Bob Bates and Joe Dodge, the quartet excels in delivering fluid counterpoints and silky solos, as showcased in 'Love Walked In.' The "red hot" in the title of Jazz: Red Hot and Cool alludes to its vibrant cover featuring a model in striking red attire. The "cool" pertains to the music itself. This reissue presents two previously unreleased tracks, 'Taking a Chance on Love' and 'Closing Time Blues,' both offering lively, energetic performances. Brubeck's solos soar on the former, while the latter delivers a delightful bounce with its piano, wire brushes, and walking bass lines. The album's excellent sound quality captures the intimate, live atmosphere of the performances, making it essential for jazz lovers. Standout tracks include 'The Duke,' a straightforward blues number, and 'Indiana,' where Desmond's solo traverses complex rhythmic patterns with ease. Documenting the quartet's progress before significant lineup changes in 1956 and 1958, this vinyl reissue revives a golden era of jazz, celebrating the innovative live performances that defined the Brubeck quartet.