Benny Carter: The King auf 2 CDs

This collection represents a first in the career of Benny Carter. Until it was recorded in 1976, there had never been an album of one of the most prolific and admired jazz composers playing nothing but his own compositions. The tunes range through a blues, ballads, a bossa nova version of the little-known "Green Wine" and the fetching "A Walkin' Thing" in only its second recording since 1957. The polish, logic, and wisdom of Carter's alto saxophone conception are set off by a group that includes three soloists of major stature in modern jazz: vibraharpist Milt Jackson, pianist Tommy Flanagan, and guitarist Joe Pass. The impeccable timekeeping of drummer Jake Hanna and bassist John B. Williams round out the ensemble. Carter's playing and compositions here give insights into why his fellow musicians have long thought of him as The King.