Milt Buckner - Milt Buckner (2014)

Two of organist Milt Buckner's final records were an all-star set that featured either Illinois Jacquet or Buddy Tate on tenor or trombonist Kai Winding, and a quartet outing with Jacquet. All of the music from those sessions (except for the two Winding numbers) are included on this single CD. With guitarist Joop Schloten, either Koos Van Der Suils or Chris Smidiger on bass and drummer Sonny Payne completing the group, Buckner is heard in typically jubilant form. Tate is showcased on three ballads, while Jacquet is on nine of the other numbers; it is a pity that the two tenors did not meet up at all. Highlights of this no-nonsense swing and ballad program include "It Could Happen to You," "Lady Be Good," "Mean to Me" and "Perdido." ~ Scott Yanow