Chambers' Music

by Scott YanowThis CD reissues bassist Paul Chambers' first sessions as a leader, recorded while he was a member of the Miles Davis Quintet. The first six selections feature Chambers with pianist Kenny Drew, drummer Philly Joe Jones and (on four numbers) the immortal tenor saxophonist John Coltrane. This somewhat obscure date includes such jazz standards as "Dexterity" and "Stablemates" along with "Easy to Love" and three straightahead group originals. Coltrane dominates the numbers he is on although his sound was not quite mature yet. The final three numbers (not on the original LP) are listed on the CD as being from April 20, 1955 but logic says that it must be exactly a year later. Chambers, Jones and Coltrane welcome two young musicians recently transplanted from Detroit: baritonist Pepper Adams and trombonist Curtis Fuller. In addition, pianist Roland Alexander is on the lengthy "Trane's Strain." Although none of this music (even the oddly titled "Nixon, Dixon and Yates Blues") is classic, it does give listeners a valuable early look at these important jazzmen.