Curtis Counce

Last week I posted a jazz playlist that may have challenged a few listeners. Today's choice is not focused on the avant garde, but on the West Coast cool jazz scene of the 1950's. Curtis Counce's album Landslide Vol. 1 may not be familiar to many, but it is a delight. The album features Harold Land on saxophone, Jack Sheldon on trumpet, Carl Perkins on piano, Frank Butler on drums, and of course Curtis Counce on bass. The opening track, "Landslide," is my favorite. Jack Sheldon's trumpet work is exemplary, particularly in the opening theme, where he plays a quick passage with Land. I have long been a fan of Harold Land's tenor, and he does not disappoint with his bluesy solo in the opening track. All the musicians excel. Perkins piano accompaniment is perfect and the rhythm section swings. Curtis Counce never received the fame he deserved, as he was often overlooked in the media, as there was a bias for the East Coast players. Please give this album a listen. You will be pleasantly surprised. Click here to listen.