Vinyl Vault: Basie Jam #2

On the next Vinyl Vault, we’ll listen to a swingin’ jam session led by Count Basie. Recorded on May 6, 1976, the session was released on the Pablo Record Label entitled “Basie Jam #2.”

Instead of leading his big band, Basie fronted an eight-piece ensemble for this date. As the liner notes explain, a successful jam session depends heavily on the rhythm section. On this date, drummer Louie Bellson and bassist John Heard continually laid down a solid and beautiful foundation. Joe Pass on guitar and Basie, himself, on piano provided additional rhythmic propulsion.

The all-star front line comprised the best in the business from the mid-70s: Eddie Lockjaw Davis on tenor saxophone, Benny Carter on alto saxophone, Al Grey on trombone, and Clark Terry on trumpet.

Be sure to check out the jams, on Tuesday, January 14 at 8:30 p.m. on the Vinyl Vault with host Geoff Anderson, only on KUVO JAZZ.

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