In spite of its rather bland album title,
Recorded Fall 1961 is an overlooked masterpiece within the extensive discography of
Stan Getz. His playing is excellent here, as is valve trombonist
Bob Brookmeyer's (and
Brookmeyer's excellent charts, which have stood the test of time very well). Rounding out the quintet is pianist
Steve Kuhn, bassist
John Neves, and drummer
Roy Haynes. The trombonist contributed three originals to the sessions, highlighted by the loping waltz "Minuet Circa '61," an extended piece with a catchy theme and superb solos. The humorous interpretation of "Nice Work If You Can Get It" avoids the typical banal approaches.
Getz and
Brookmeyer blend well together and excel in their use of counterpoint, while the rhythm section is superb. ~ Ken Dryden