Has there ever been a more consistent performer in jazz history over a longer period of time than
Benny Carter? The classic altoist, who had fully formed his sound by the early '30s (he first recorded in 1927), has not altered his style much in the past 65 (and counting) years. The music on this Verve reissue CD features
Carter in three settings: in a trio with pianist
Teddy Wilson and drummer
Jo Jones (those performances were only previously out in Japan), heading a quartet with pianist
Don Abney, bassist
George Duvivier and drummer
Louis Bellson and showcased on three previously unissued tracks with the
Oscar Peterson trio plus drummer
Bobby White.
Carter knew most of these standards extremely well and he glides effortlessly over the chord changes, infusing the music with swing and subtle creativity. ~ Scott Yanow