Desmond Blue

Recording sessions that pair jazz musicians with string orchestras can be dicey affairs, artistically speaking. More often than not, they represent an attempt to dilute the edginess of jazz and make it palatable for listeners with softer ears. DESMOND BLUE, however, succeeds marvellously. Given alto saxophonist Paul Desmond's natural penchant for cool, silky tones and highly nuanced phrasing, the addition of lush strings (arranged here by Bob Prince) is perfectly complementary, and the results are rich, complex, and alluring, never syrupy or sentimental.
The presence of guitar legend Jim Hall adds another dimension to the proceedings. Hall plays with great intuitive restraint and balance, yet is progressive in terms of his harmonic and rhythmic approach. The set focuses mostly on standards, including "I've Got You Under My Skin", "Body and Soul", and "My Funny Valentine", but it is the mood--sophisticated and soothing--that dominates throughout. This is introspective music that will undoubtedly appeal to Desmond fans, and should win over jazz purists and lovers of contemporary orchestral music alike.|