Though not partners as had been planned in the initial
Modern Jazz Quartet,
Ray Brown and
Milt Jackson did work together in the early to mid-'60s, this double-CD set includes some fine collaborations and interesting combinations. There are 12 big-band cuts from 1962 led by
Brown, primarily featuring
Cannonball Adderley with
Jackson on the side. From 1965 another eight tracks concentrate on small group efforts with
Brown,
Jackson, pianist
Hank Jones, and different horn soloists, while the final 14 selections from 1964, still as small ensembles with set lineups of guitarist
Kenny Burrell, drummer
Al Heath, keyboardists
Jones, or
Wild Bill Davis, also highlight the singing of the gospel vocalist
Marion Williams. This can easily be considered a valuable reissue, showcasing two jazz giants in the prime of their careers, playing music not readily identifiable aside from their work with
Oscar Peterson (
Brown) or
MJQ (
Jackson) around this time. ~ Michael G. Nastos