This 1998 CD has all of the music from two formerly scarce 10" LPs. Trumpeter
Howard McGhee heads an all-star group that includes trombonist
J.J. Johnson, tenor saxophonist
Brew Moore, pianist
Kenny Drew, bassist
Curly Russell, and drummer
Max Roach on "I'll Remember April," an original by the leader and four songs (plus an alternate take) by
Drew, who was making his recording debut. Because it was the tail-end of the 78 era, all of the performances are between 2:34 and 3:07 in length but the concise solos are generally quite strong. Although
McGhee gets the top billing on this CD, the second half of this disc is actually by the Kenny Drew Trio (with
Russell and drummer
Art Blakey) from three years later,
Drew's debut as a leader. Other than his "Gloria" and the basic "Drew's Blues," all of the music (which is augmented by two alternate takes) is standards including "Be My Love," "Yesterdays," and a surprisingly heated rendition of "It Might As Well Be Spring." Easily recommended to bebop collectors. ~ Scott Yanow