The Lee Konitz Nonet never really prospered, but they recorded several excellent albums. With such top players as flügelhornist
John Eckert, trombonist
Jimmy Knepper, and baritonist
Ronnie Cuber in the group, and colorful arrangements provided by
Sy Johnson, this band's repertoire was as wide as one would expect from a
Konitz band. Whether it be the
Louis Armstrong-associated "Struttin' with Some Barbeque," a
Lester Young-inspired "Sometimes I'm Happy,"
Charlie Parker's "Chi-Chi," "Giant Steps," or some newer originals, the results are frequently superb. ~ Scott Yanow