Recorded in 1976
Originally issued as Richard Kamuca Quartet 1976 on the short-lived Jazzz label
This is an exquisite recording of small-group jazz.
Neither this LP nor the two subsequent LPs that Kamuca made for Concord have ever been reissued in any digital format. That's a pity because more people should hear this music.
Yet another good reason to keep your turntable spinning!
Kamuca's other two records for Concord:
- Drop Me Off In Harlem (1977)
- Richie Kamuca's Charlie (1979)
I've always like Richie Kamuca, and the 1970s albums are well worth investigating. I would also recommend checking out his work with Shelly Manne's quintet, especially the BlackHawk recordings from 1959. I think Kamuca benefits in the larger groups because he doesn't have to carry all the weight. Manne was a great leader from the drum kit, like Art Blakey, and put his horn soloists in the best possible light.
ReplyDeleteAlso recommended, Kamuca as co-leader on Jazz Erotica (1958) and leader on Richie Kamuca Quartet (1957). Jazz Erotica is a great West Coast classic, and the quartet album gives Richie plenty of room to work.
By now, a player of Richie Kaumuca's ability is easy to overlook. Thanks to bloggers, and commentators, the great contributions of artists not named Coltrane or Rollins can be celebrated!