John Jenkins - Young Jenkins: 1957 Quintet Sessions (2019)

Alto saxophonist John Jenkins (1931-1993), was one of the up-and-coming local young voices of the exciting Chicago jazz scene of the mid-fifties. Like so many other alto players then, he was considerably influenced by Parker and, to an extent, by Jackie McLean and Sonny Stitt, yet he had many personal turns of his own within the idiom. He attracted wider public attention in 1957 after moving to New York when he played briefly for Charlie Mingus. It quickly led to calls for gigs and recording dates; in his first year in the Big Apple he appeared as leader or co-leader on four albums, and on half a dozen more as a sideman. Surprisingly, however, he would never record again, but despite his oddly brief recording career, he’s still remembered for his invigorating recordings and his softer, almost poignant tone.

These two fine albums afforded him ample room to show his mettle. The presence of Kenny Burrell and an excellent rhythm section contributes in great part to the over-all vibrant, happy feel of the first session, and the unison alto-guitar sound that results is singularly attractive. On the second Jenkins was joined by another Chicagoan, Clifford Jordan, an excellent tenor saxophonist influenced by the early Sonny Rollins, and by an ideal rhythm section with Bobby Timmons on piano, for a relaxed and soulful meeting of minds.