Ballads & Blues/Bags & Flutes (1999)

About this title: The unassuming title of this compilation understates the fact that Milt Jackson is a master of ballad and blues forms, and an inspired collaborator when working flautists. True to form, the ever-consistent Jackson delivers the goods on this reissue of two of the vibraphonist's Atlantic releases -- one from 1956, the other from 1958. The small group settings for these performances allow the players -- some of the very best in jazz and all in top form -- to be heard to full advantage. The guitarists are particularly effective, the crisp, cool tones of Skeeter Best, Barry Galbraith, Barney ... read more

Tracks:

1. So in Love [Porter]
2. These Foolish Things [Link/Marvell/Strach]
3. Solitude [Ellington/Mills/DeL]
4. The Song Is Ended [Berlin]
5. They Didn't Believe Me [Kern/Rourke]
6. How High the Moon [Hamilton/Lewis]
7. Gerry's Blues [Jackson]
8. Bright Blues [Jackson]
9. Bags' New Groove [Jackson]
10. Sandy [Jackson]
11. Midget Rod [Jackson]
12. I'm Afraid the Masquerade Is Over [Wrubel/Magidson]
13. Ghana [Wilkins]
14. Sweet and Lovely [Arnheim/Tobias/Lema]
15. Connie's Blues [Jackson]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.