In listening to
Bunky Green
, one can hear where
Greg Osby
,
Steve Coleman
, and
Gary Thomas
came from.
Green
sails in and out of the chord changes and makes most of his solos into a do-or-die situation full of emotional intensity, especially when he plays alto. On this diverse CD (which finds him also performing a bit on soprano),
shows that he is not afraid to occasionally caress a melody (as on a slow
"Everything I Have Is Yours"
) and frequently emphasizes unexpected notes, particularly during a fascinating version of
"I Concentrate on You."
Joined by a fine rhythm section consisting of pianist
Billy Childs
, bassist
Art Davis
, and drummer
Ralph Penland
is in top form on what may very well be his definitive recording. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow