Some O’This And Some O’That

Album review

Some o' This and Some o' That brings together a trio of jazz veterans in the cozy confines of bassist Red Mitchell's apartment in Stockholm. The session is redolent of musical bonhomie -- three old friends revisiting some familiar songs in addition to a few comfortable and good-natured originals. One of those, Mitchell's "Simple Isn't Easy," best captures the high spirits of the date. Pianist Roger Kellaway romps through his solo, mixing a vibrant stride with some tonal experimental up top. But he's never less than tuneful. Mitchell follows up with a deep-toned turn, thinking aloud as he goes. "Simple" may not be easy, but in these hands it sure is fun. Putte Wickman revels in the support provided by Kellaway and Mitchell. He has a rich, woody sound and a sure, melodic touch. He spins out fetching lines that develop logically. Even though this has the surface appearance of a casual date, the players eschew self-indulgence. Each solo evolves coherently and to the point within the context of each tune. And each tune contributes to the serious fun of the session as a whole.

© David Dupont /TiVo