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Swiss Nights, Vol. 1 ~ Dexter Gordon Quartet | By Eddie Carter

The Dexter Gordon Quartet steps into the spotlight for this morning’s discussion with Swiss Nights, Vol. 1 (SteepleChase SCS-1050), the first of three albums recorded live at The Zürich Jazz Festival ’75. Dexter’s joined on stage by an all-star rhythm section, Kenny Drew on piano, Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen on bass, and Alex Riel on drums. My copy used in this report is the 1976 US Stereo release (Inner City Records IC 2050). 

Side One starts with Gordon introducing the first number, an uptempo rendition of Tenor Madness by Sonny Rollins. The quartet launches the melody briskly, and Dexter gets things off to a rousing start on the lead solo. Kenny maintains the momentum on a swiftly paced performance next. Niels-Henning lays down a rocking beat on the third reading. Alex sizzles in a brief exchange with the leader ahead of the ending and the audience’s ovation.

Wave by Antônio Carlos Jobim is one of his most beautiful compositions. Jobim first recorded it as the title tune of his 1967 album. After Dex’s introduction, the rhythm section gently sets the mood for this bossa nova. Gordon shines brightly on the melody and cooks with conviction on the opening statement. Drew is up next with a delightfully creative interpretation, then Pedersen delivers a melodic, rich-toned reading. Gordon returns for a few final comments into the closing chorus. 

Side Two begins with Dexter quoting a few of the lyrics to announce You’ve Changed by Bill Carey and Carl Fischer. This is a poignant story beautifully told by the quartet with a delicately gentle melody. Dexter makes the opening solo his own with a glowingly tender performance. Kenny responds with an emotionally touching reading, then the leader returns for an especially moving closing statement that’s very nice.

The set ends with Days of Wine and Roses by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer. This old favorite is the title song from the 1962 film and the ensemble opens with an infectious opening chorus. Gordon is up first expressing pleasure on the first statement. Drew swings easily on the following interpretation, then Pedersen takes great delight on the next reading. Dexter reappears briefly preceding the quartet’s closing theme and exit. Swiss Nights, Vol. 1 was produced by Nils Winther. The recording and mixing engineer is Helmuth Kolbe. The album transports the listener to the festival with a solid soundstage that doesn’t disappoint and captures The Dexter Gordon Quartet in fine form. Now that I have Swiss Nights, Vol. 1 in my library, I’ll certainly be seeking out the two remaining volumes in this series. If you’re a fan of Dexter Gordon and love live jazz, this is one I highly recommend!

~ Swiss Nights, Vol. 2 (SteepleChase Records SCS-1090), Swiss Nights, Vol. 3 (SteepleChase Records SCS-1110), Wave (A&M records SP-3002) – Source: Discogs.com
~ Days of Wine and Roses, Wave – Source: JazzStandards.com
~ You’ve Changed – Source: Wikipedia.org
© 2021 by Edward Thomas Carter

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