Personnel:
Billy Bauer (g), Tony Aless, Andrew Ackers (p), Arnold Fishkin, Milt Hinton (b), Don Lamond, Osie Johnson (d)
Reference: FSRCD 516
Bar code: 8427328605168
Billy Bauer was the most celebrated guitarist in early modern jazz, winning more awards than any other on the instrument and establishing an enviable reputation as a member of the Woody Herman rhythm section. As a longtime sideman for Lennie Tristano and Lee Konitz, he made some brilliant recordings showcasing his magisterial authority with contrapuntal lines.
Despite his long career as a sideman, he did only two recording dates as a leader, both quartet sessions, compiled in this CD. In them he managed at all times to extract the greatest tenderness from his instrument. Playing with soul, swinging subtly, straight ahead or lightly as the need arose, he accomplished the rare and difficult feat of combining good jazz with accessibility.
-Plectrist
"Billy Bauer was an accomplished studio guitar player whose only studio date as a leader was this release, finally reissued as a part of the Verve Elite Edition limited edition CD series in 2000. Throughout the CD he is never overpowering, but a solid rhythmic player, whether essaying a gently swinging "Too Marvelous for Words" or a more sprightly "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To." Bauer also wrote several originals for the date, including the easygoing bop vehicle "Lincoln Tunnel," the tender ballad "Night Cruise," and the unaccompanied "Blue Mist." Accompanying Bauer is bassist Milt Hinton, drummer Osie Johnson, and the obscure pianist Arnold Ackers. While this won't be an essential CD for every jazz fan, those who acquire it will not be disappointed."
—Ken Dryden (All Music Guide)
