Jimmy Rowles Trio - Rare–But Well Done

Jimmy Rowles says: "I prefer ballads and easy jump tunes, so you won't hear much at a race track tempo". The renditions of these tunes somewhat defy controversy, inasmuch as the conceptions here have such simplicity, freshness and good taste. It doesn’t strike me that he is trying to prove any points here other than — piano artistry can be treated so as to appeal to all listeners, artist and laymen alike. To quote Jimmy, "I like to get away from the commonly played tunes. There are so many beautiful things you hardly ever hear". "So Far So Good" was recorded by Duke Ellington around 1939. This I believe is the only other recording made to date. "Remember Me" has a graciousness about it and warmth that makes you want to listen to it over and over again. All of these numbers have a distinctly happy and relaxed feeling about them. Jimmy maintains that his next album will have the same personnel but a little different musical idea. After listening to this one, I'm sure everyone will be appreciative of his follow-ups. Red Mitchell, the bass player, besides being a great soloist is a great rhythm man too, as his work with Red Norvo and Gerry Mulligan has proven. Art Mardigan, who is currently pounding the skins with many of Detroit's top jazz groups, was drummer for the Woody Herman Herd at the time of the "Four Others" recording. He is exceptionally good with small combos as those within earshot of this album will attest. Jazz critics agree... Art's neglected genius is sure to be recognized... and SOON. 

The easy relaxed "Count Basie" feeling was one of the aims of the trio. That it was so successful is perhaps why LIBERTY so aptly titled the album "Rare... But Well Done". The recording is one of beauty... the epitome of balance and clarity. Listen, and see if you don't agree.

*Fran Kelley (liner notes)*

A rare early date as a leader for pianist Jimmy Rowles — a player who was a key part of the LA scene in the 50s, but didn't often get to front a group for a recording session! Even at this young point in his career, Rowles already has that warm charm that got him noticed again in the late 70s — that relaxed, almost world-weary way of playing the piano — quite subtle, but filled with soul — and an approach that's even more captivating every time we give the record a spin! The tunes are mostly familiar, but like good jazz singer taking on some standards, Jimmy relaxes into the songs and really makes them his own — illuminating them wonderfully, with some help from Red Mitchell on bass and Art Mardigan on drums. *dustygroove.com*

Side 1

1 - The Day You Came Along

(Coslow, Johnston)

2 - So Far So Good

(Lawrence, Mundy, White)

3 - Medley: 

• I Wouldn't Change You For The World

(Jones, Newman)

• You Are Too Beautiful

(Richard Rodgers)

4 - Serenade In Blue

(Gordon, Warren)

5 - Let's Fall In Love

(Arlen)

Side 2

6 - Medley:

• Remember Me

(Dubin, Warren)

• There Goes My Heart

(Silver, Davis)

7 - Lady Be Good

(G. and I. Gershwin)

8 - Chloe

(Moret, Kahn)

9 - Topsy

(Durham, Bahle)

Jimmy Rowles (piano), Red Mitchell (bass), Art Mardigan (drums).

Recorded in Hollywood, California, December 13, 1954.