Recorded in 1978
Tompkins was an excellent pianist, probably best known for his long stint with The Tonight Show Band on the TV program The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Tompkins joined the band in 1971 and stayed until Carson's retirement in 1992!
Beginning in the mid-70s, Tompkins regularly recorded for Carl Jefferson's Concord label, both as a leader and sideman. On this particular album, Tompkins is supported by rock-solid playing from bassist Monty Budwig and drummer Nick Ceroli. But I will confess that Al Cohn is the reason that I couldn't resist adding Ross Tompkins and Good Friends to the survey. His saxophone playing is what makes this LP so special.
By the time of this recording, Al Cohn's dark-hued take on Lester Young had taken on a magisterial, Rollins-esque quality. From this listener's perspective, the best music of Cohn's entire career was made during this streak of sustained excellence.
Unfortunately, you'll have to take my word for it -- unless you still spin vinyl and are willing to track down a used copy. As far as I can tell, it's never been issued in any digital format.
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