One More - The Music of Thad Jones (IPO 1007)
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the formation of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra, and as an excuse to play the compositions of the late great Thad Jones, a group of top jazz veterans was enlisted for this project. Michael Patterson arranged 11 of Jones' songs, adapting Thad's own arrangements, which were originally made for either combos or a big band, for the all-star octet. Each of the veteran musicians had an association with Thad Jones. Happily, they all sound in pretty good form, with the tenors of Benny Golson, James Moody, and Frank Wess battling it out on "One More." A tape of the late pianist Sir Roland Hanna is used during the first part of Jones' most famous original, "A Child Is Born." Jimmy Owens proves to be an excellent fill-in for Thad; this is one of his finest recordings. It is also fitting that Thad's older brother, Hank Jones, is on piano. The final number, Thelonious Monk's "Monk's Mood," is included because it was one of Thad Jones' favorite songs. All in all, this is a well-conceived and very musical tribute.
Scott Yanow
All Music Guide
Perhaps the word "perfection" is seen too often in music reviews. Nevertheless, One More - Music Of Thad Jones deserves that honor. There isn't a mediocre track anywhere. Seasoned fans know and love these compositions and novices won't find a better introduction to an unforgettable jazz composer. One More - Music Of Thad Jones just never stops swinging.
JazzReview.comJazzTimes (Nat Hentoff's "Final Chorus")
"…a session that can be an introduction for someone who wants to get into the essence of jazz - and will delight those who already know and can't get enough of it."
JazzTimes (Nat Hentoff's "Final Chorus")
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