Ralph Sutton Quartet Featuring Bob Wilber, Vol. 4

Personnel: Ralph Sutton (piano); Bob Wilber (soprano saxophone, clarinet);
Al Hall (bass); Cliff Leeman (drums).
Recorded live at Sunnie's Rendezvous, Aspen, Colorado in 1969. Includes liner notes by Pat Hawes.
Personnel: Ralph Sutton (piano); Bob Wilber (clarinet, soprano saxophone); Cliff Leeman (drums).
Liner Note Author: Pat Hawes.
Recording information: Sunnie's Rendezvous, Aspen, CO (02/14/1969-02/17/1969).
It is fortunate for fans of jazz piano that stride master Ralph Sutton was recorded frequently during his tenure as the house pianist in his wife's Aspen, CO, restaurant during the late '60s; this fourth volume consists of excerpts from four consecutive evenings taped in February 1969 with Bob Wilber (clarinet and soprano sax), bassist Al Hall, and drummer Cliff Leeman (who sticks to brushes) joining the leader. Sutton is at the top of his game during the wild romp through "I Want to Be Happy," stimulating Wilber's swinging clarinet. "Old Folks" sounds especially bittersweet with Wilber's mournful soprano sax and Sutton's thoughtful accompaniment behind him. Their interpretation of James P. Johnson's memorable ballad "Old Fashioned Love" (with Wilber still on soprano sax) restores the often omitted verse. The sound is excellent throughout the CD; although the audience members are clearly enjoying the music, their reactions are fortunately reserved until each piece is completed. Anyone who enjoys Ralph Sutton will consider this release an essential purchase. ~ Ken Dryden