Jazz The Stan Tracey Quartet

Two of the three classic Stan Tracey album referenced on the cover of this double-disc set are Showcase, his debut album from 1958, and Little Klunk, which was his first to feature only his own compositions. Then things get murky. Jazz Inc., which is featured here in its entirety, was actually recorded by the Tony Crombie Orchestra, of which Tracey was a part. The other music here includes four tunes by Tracey's Quartet with Tubby Hayes, some selections from Tracey with the Harry Klein Quartet, and a few from his tenure as a sideman in yet another group led by American guitarist Jon Wheatley. Tthere are completely new liner notes as well as reproductions of the originals, and a fine remastering job was done; all sold for a very respectable price tag. As an introduction to one of British jazz's great original voices, this is truly worthy.

Ed Jones may now be considered a stalwart of the UK & International jazz sceen. Signed orignally by Gilles Peterson on Acid Jazz and after many years in Incognito he has always ploughed his own furrow leading different small groups himself. This quartet with Impossible Ark regulars Ross Stanley, Riaan Vosloo & Tim Giles is a fully freewheeling afair. Taking hard bop melodies and systematically dismantling them. Rough, furocious and virtuosic performances by all members of the group are always soulful.