Al Cohn and Zoot Sims – Live at the Left Bank
Live at the Left Bank
Al Cohn and Zoot Sims
(Basileus)
by Dick Bogle
There is a medley of “These Foolish Things” and “Willow Weep For Me” which by itself makes this re-release a valuable addition to anyone’s jazz library. Both Al Cohn and Zoot Sims are heard on tenor saxophones and are backed by Portland resident Dave Frishberg on piano; Victor Sproles, bass and drummer Donald Mc Donald.
Cohn take the first solo on “Foolish Things.” Listening to him reveals just how much Stan Getz must have been influenced by him with tone and intonation. On “Willow Weep For Me,” Sims is reminiscent of Gene Ammons with his blues interpretation. Even though the two tunes stand in stark contrast, their pairing makes for great listening.
Zoot takes the first solo on “Blue Hodge,” a tune written for Johnny Hodges. Cohn follows just as blue. Each of these players is great in his own right but together they seem to gain inspiration and that’s clearly heard.
