Cool Struttin’ – Sonny Clark – LP – Brand New Vinyl (Arrives in 20days)

This album deservedly acquired ‘cult status’ thanks perhaps to the blend of
material and happy assurance of all the soloists. Art Farmer for example is
melodic and tuneful on
Cool Struttin’
, helped by Sonny’s sympathetic yet urgent
chordal backing. The same applies to Jackie McLean, a loyal devotee of Charlie
Parker but blessed with his own style. The pianist’s solos have finger bustin’
moments when the keys seem melded into one homogenous mass. But Sonny
also displayed his expertise as a tasteful stylist with a unique approach much
admired by Bill Evans. The musicians assembled for this session were produced
by Blue Note Records supremo Alfred Lion, and would have been familiar to
Clark, on this occasion cast in the role of Leader. Sonny was one of the Jazz
label’s house pianists called on to back the likes of John Coltrane, Kenny Burrell
and Hank Mobley.