Modern Jazz Quartet: 1957 Originally issued on LP in 1957 on Atlantic Records. John Lewis himself said this was one of their best efforts. This album is available for the first time on CD. Remastered. Wounded Bird Records. 2002.
Customer Review: Real “Cool” Jazz
What makes this recording great is the vibe created by these four great musicians. “Chamber jazz”, as the latter reviewer calls it, is simply another label that can be given to what is truly provocative and gorgeous music created by four beautiful people. When I look at the front cover and hear the sounds these four beautiful Arican-Americans created in the late 50’s I can only sit in awe.
I love Milt Jackson. His vibraphone created some of the greatest sounds in Jazz. John Lewis seems to play with only his right hand, but does with that one hand more than many could do before him. Percy Heath and Connie Kay keep the subtle but powerful rhythm flowing. The best Jazz cd I have found in a long time.
Customer Review: The essence of the MJQ
After having seen “Annie Get Your Gun” the other night at the local playhouse in San Mateo, I was surprised to discover that “They Say It’s Wonderful” was from that 1946 show. I arrived home and reported immediately to the turntable to savor the 5-tune medley that I have listened to since I purchased this album (vinyl) in high school four decades ago). Lewis, Jackson, Kay and Heath never failed to please. The jazz is subtle, lyrical, and just plain beautiful. It’s great to have the sounds preserved on CD and MP3! “They say that love is wonderful”…and so is this music.