Sunday Music Muse Day - Paul Desmond, Ben Wendel.

This Sunday Music Muse Day finds the weather turning into a pleasant autumn day after a very cool, and rainy morning, yesterday. Today's selection are in the same vain, a contrast in old and new, in terms of jazz saxophonists.  First up is Paul Desmond Feeling Blue, the legendary saxophonist well known for his work with equally legendary pianist Dave Brubeck's groups. The liner notes states Paul Desmond didn't use piano players in his sessions "to avoid comparison with the Brubeck sound he helped to create".  The notes continues: "he preferred the pure sound of the guitar".  That is abundantly evident in the playing of the great Jim Hall on this compilation of sessions recorded in 1961 through 1964.  There are lot a great jazz standards played on this CD that's has fresh sounding as ever.  Prefect listening for a fall afternoon, or any time.

My second choice, is a young saxophonist,, Ben Wendel Frame. He is relatively new to me, but I have a duet,"October" with guitarist Gilad Hekselman, save on my youtube music playlist. It seems it will be included on new release of Wendel titled, The Seasons.  Twelve duet with twelve different musicians.  (I know a FB friend mentioned this CD, but I can't remember who, sorry) I'll keep an eye out for it.  Frame is fine compliment to the Paul Desmond, it's a contemporary feels with solid playing on all original tunes by Wendel, with the except of Dizzy Gillespie tune, "Con Alma", showing respect for jazz roots.

Autumn has arrived, and with falling leaves and crisp afternoon to enjoy a warm drink and cool jazz.  Sounds like a good plan to me.  Enjoy.