Editorial Reviews

This Gambit CD compilation combines the complete contents of two long unavailable records that Art Farmer made for United Artists. The first seven tracks come from Brass Shout, a very enjoyable collaboration with his Jazztet partner Benny Golson, who also wrote all of the arrangements for this date. The all-star cast of sidemen include trombonists Curtis Fuller and Jimmy Cleveland, plus trumpeters Lee Morgan and Ernie Royal. Golson's own "Five Spot After Dark" is an obvious highlight, as are his treatments of "Nica's Dream" and "Moanin'." Farmer, who had not yet made the switch from trumpet to flugelhorn, is in top form throughout the date. Unfortunately, The Aztec Suite hasn't aged as well. Half of the original album was devoted to the extended title cut, composed by Chico O'Farrill and in spite of the laudatory liner notes, this piece has not stood the test of time. Production problems plague the remaining tracks, with excessive Latin percussion and unexpected fades, along with insufficient space for Farmer to solo. While this latter session is disappointing, the chance for Art Farmer fans to pick up Brass Shout along with The Aztec Suite for one price will likely prove irresistible. Ken Dryden, All Music Guide

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