Jam Session Vol.26

Producer Nils Winther has frequently recorded jam sessions for his Steeplechase label, though he has such a stockpile that he often waits years before releasing them. This 2008 release was actually recorded eight years earlier, an unusual date pairing trombonist Conrad Herwig with two baritone saxophonists, Ed Xiques and Jay Brandford, plus a rhythm section featuring label regular Andy LaVerne on piano, bassist Steve LaSpina, and drummer Darren Beckett. Herwig is the lead soloist in the percolating take of "Alone Together," with the two baritone players bracketing LaVerne's tight solo. LaVerne's "Triplicate" has become a Steeplechase jam session favorite, appearing on a number of CDs in the series. The tune, which sounds like something that Oscar Pettiford could have played in the mid-'50s, is an excellent vehicle for improvisation, with a choice opening solo by LaSpina. The ballad medley showcases each of the three horns individually, following the format of so many Norman Granz recordings of jam sessions. The loping "Blues Walk" is a sassy affair, while the breezy bossa nova setting of "You Stepped Out of a Dream" sizzles. ~ Ken Dryden|