This fine recording is a minor classic. It was recorded for a 10"LP for Blue Note Records in June of 1953. Ironically Mr. Johnson was not even employed as a full-time musician then. He had to take a job as a draughtsman at the Sperry Gyroscope Factory to support his growing family. You would never know this when you hear this well-planned and well organized recording. Johnson selected all these players wisely and knitted them together so they sounded like a working band. Along with the great voice of the trombone...Mr.Johnson, we have a then new trumpet sensation in 22 year old Clifford Brown who manages to steal the show on several selections. Jimmy Heath (the only surviving member of this sextet) is heard on tenor saxophone and he displays a Rollins-like concept and swings like mad. He also doubles on baritone saxophone in the ensemble on two tunes. John Lewis who like Johnson is a composer and arranger is heard on piano. Lewis does all the right stuff behind the horns and his solos on piano are models of economy. Percy Heath is on bass and is Jimmy's older brother. The great pioneer of Modern Jazz drums is Kenny Clarke. The tunes are mostly arranged by Johnson with the exception of John Lewis' majestic "Sketch 1". The band is tight and together and everyone gets to say their say in under five minutes per tune. Enjoy the sounds of Mr. Johnson and company.
