The superior reissue series on Dragon features Swedish baritonist
Lars Gullin in his prime. The fifth CD,
First Walk, showcases
Gullin in three quartets and with three medium-size groups. Key sidemen include pianist
Bengt Hallberg, trombonist
Ake Persson, the
Lee Konitz-inspired altoist Jonas Berstrom, and trumpeter
Rolf Ericson. However,
Gullin, who was a perfect baritonist for cool jazz, is the star throughout, not only contributing solos but memorable originals in "That's It," "Danny-O," and "First Walk"; the latter has
Gullin making a rare appearance on bass clarinet. All 26 selections will be enjoyed by fans of 1950s West Coast-style jazz. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow