This compilation is a bit frustrating for
Teddy Wilson fans. The first ten tracks are a straight reissue of the Black & Blue LP Three Little Words, which has been reissued by the original label with four bonus tracks. It is an unusual session, recorded in an open air studio with bassist
Milt Hinton and drummer
Oliver Jackson, though the material represents standards that
Wilson had played countless times by this point in his career. A breezy "Don't Be That Way" and a romp through "Flyin' Home" are obvious highlights, though every track is a winner. The last six tracks are listed as being from a 1982 Washington, D.C. concert in a quartet led by
Benny Goodman, though the clarinet's discography doesn't list such a performance. In any case, it is a somewhat noisy concert with the audience in the immediate proximity of the outdoor stage, suggesting a venue like Ravinia. The recording quality is amateurish, with
Goodman very clear, but
Wilson sounding a bit distant and muddy. Some unidentified horns join at the conclusion of "If I Had You" and are also heard in "Avalaon." The performances are enjoyable, though hardly among the best work available of
Goodman, so this compilation falls short of being essential. ~ Ken Dryden