Wolfgang Lackerschmid & Chet Baker

After many joint live performances and two record albums, this is the third document of the musical collaboration of esteemed vibraphonist Wolfgang Lackerschmid and legendary trumpet player Chet Baker.

Recorded in August 1987, this wide-ranging release showcases vast musical landscapes, from poignant ballads to robust Latin rhythms, following in step their previous, Quintet Sessions 1979 (DRJ 161373) and Ballads for Two.

On Welcome Back, Baker is in top form. Coming across as particularly sensitive, Baker has seldom been observed in such a relaxed mood. The ambiance of the studio with an open fireplace surely contributed to this setting - in fact, listeners can hear the crackling of the burning wood on select tracks. The compositions are lyrical and blend with his renowned, unobtrusively soft performance well, though there are no vocal performances here.

PERSONNEL:

• Wolfgang Lackerschmid - (vibes)
• Chet Baker - (trumpet)
• Nicola Stylo - (flute, guitar on track 8)
• Gunter Lenz - (bass)
• Rocky Knauer - (bass)
• Peri Dos Santos - (guitar)
• Edir Dos Santos - (drums)

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. Welcome Back
• A2. Why Shouldn’t You Cry
• A3. Pitztal Daybreak
• A4. Christmas Waltz

• SIDE B
• B1. Try It Dry
• B2. Volta Trais
• B3. Gloria’s Answer
• B4. Waltz For Berlin