Ever since
Artie Shaw and
Charlie Parker, most jazz musicians have had a desire to record at least once in their lives with strings, often considering it a prestigious honor. Altoist
Art Pepper finally had his chance on this album and fortunately the string arrangements (by
Bill Holman and
Jimmy Bond) do not weigh down the proceedings.
Pepper sounds quite inspired performing seven strong compositions highlighted by
Hoagy Carmichael's "Winter Moon," "When the Sun Comes Out" and a clarinet feature on "Blues in the Night." This material (plus four alternate takes and two other songs from the same sessions) is included in the massive
Art Pepper Galaxy box set. ~ Scott Yanow