Herbie Mann

Featuring: Jack Sheldon (tp), Herbie Mann (fl, bcl), Jimmy Rowles (p), Buddy Clark (b), Mel Lewis (d).

In 1957, flutist Herbie Mann claimed the bass clarinet as his most suitable second horn (#1-7). This fine, low-pressure collection is a showcase for Mann’s playing, but not at the expense of the other musicians. According to annotator Orrin Keepnews, this session consisted of “relaxed, spirited, and free-wheeling blowing”. The spirit is maintained without shoving decibels into the breach. And there are enough solos to go around. Jack Sheldon plays with great authority. Rowles performs in supporting and solo roles with equal proficiency. Lewis and Clark service the horns with steady flow of rhythmic drive. On bass clarinet, as on the flute (#8-11), Herbie Mann here revealed himself to be a very consistent jazzman.
Trackinglist:

1 The Theme
2 Lady Bird
3 Get Out Of Town
4 Is It True What They Say About Dixie?
5 A Handful Of Stars
6 A Stella Performance
7 A Sad Thing
8 St. Louis Blues
9 Let’s Dance
10 Tenderly
11 Strike Up The Band

Recorded Los Angeles, 1957.