Mad Bebop explores four historical sessions marking the development of pianist
Bud Powell. Originally recorded for the Savoy label in 1946 and 1947, these 14 tracks were issued under the leaders' names --
Kenny Dorham,
Dexter Gordon,
J.J. Johnson, and
Charlie Parker -- with
Powell listed as a sideman. During this period
Bird and
Powell's development ran parallel to each other, as both were combining incredible speed with limitless improvising dexterity, as heard on "Chasin' the Bird," "Cheryl," and "Buzzy." Those three tracks also mark the amazingly lucid interplay of
Powell and
Parker before their improvising virtuosity began to deteriorate due to mental illness. Jazz collectors no doubt already own this material but may want to investigate this reissue, as it features state-of-the-art transfers from acetates and tape masters. ~ Al Campbell