1951/52, Vol. 5: First Walk

Personnel includes: Lars Gullin (baritone saxophone, bass clarinet); Jonas Bergstrom (alto saxophone); Rolf Blomqvist, Carl-Hendrik Lindgren (tenor saxophone); Rolf Ericson, Weine Renliden (trumpet); Ake Bjorkman (french horn); Ake Persson (trombone); Bengt Hallberg, Mats Olsson, Gunnar Svensson, Ingemar Westberg (piano); Gunnar Almstedt, Bengt Wittsrom, Yngve Akkerberg (bass); Jack Noren, Anders Burman, Nils-Bertil Dahlander (drums).
Contains 26 tracks.
The superior reissue series on Dragon features Swedish baritonist Lars Gullin in his prime. The fifth CD, First Walk, showcases Gullin in three quartets and with three medium-size groups. Key sidemen include pianist Bengt Hallberg, trombonist Ake Persson, the Lee Konitz-inspired altoist Jonas Berstrom, and trumpeter Rolf Ericson. However, Gullin, who was a perfect baritonist for cool jazz, is the star throughout, not only contributing solos but memorable originals in "That's It," "Danny-O," and "First Walk"; the latter has Gullin making a rare appearance on bass clarinet. All 26 selections will be enjoyed by fans of 1950s West Coast-style jazz. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow