Requisites

Gettin’ Together ~ Art Pepper | By Eddie Carter

This morning’s library selection is a standout example of cool jazz by the multi-talented musician Art Pepper. Gettin’ Together (Contemporary Records M3573/S7573), released in 1960, was his third album on Lester Koenig’s label. It

demonstrated his creativity and versatility as a composer and featured a superb lineup. Conte Candoli on trumpet (tracks: A1, A2, B1), Art Pepper on alto (A1, A3, A4, B2) and tenor sax (A2, B1, B3), Wynton Kelly on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Jimmy Cobb (listed here as Jimmie) on drums. My copy is the 1984 U.S. Original Jazz Classics stereo reissue (Contemporary Records OJC-169).

Side One opens with Whims of Chambers by Paul Chambers, initially recorded by the bassist in 1957. Art, Paul, and Jimmie’s introduction gets things started ahead of the ensemble’s melody. Art sets the groove with some homecooking, and then Wynton follows with a thoroughly satisfying statement. Conte steps in briefly before Paul takes the next flight. Art and Jimmie briefly exchange thoughts, leading to the theme’s reprise. Bijou the Poodle is an original by Art Pepper, inspired by his dog; the quintet collectively presents the medium-paced melody. Pepper opens with long, flowing phrases, and then Candoli makes a profound impression. Kelly gets into the groove next, succeeded by Chambers, who weaves comfortably through the final interpretation until the climax.

Up next is a quartet performance of Why Are We Afraid? by Dory Langdon and André Previn. Wynton’s brief introduction leads into Art’s gentle theme and first solo, which asks this tender question with tranquil support from the rhythm section. Wynton continues the thoughtful mood in the following interpretation before Art makes a few final comments and delivers the ending theme. The tempo picks up with Softly As In a Morning Sunrise by Sigmund Romberg and Oscar Hammerstein II. The trio gets things started, then Pepper leads the lively melody. The leader steps into the spotlight first with a terrific presentation. Kelly takes a sizzling reading next. Paul walks through the third reading with strong bass lines, and Pepper and Cobb engage in an upbeat conversation, leading to the melody’s restatement.

Side Two opens with Thelonious Monk’s Rhythm-a-Ning. Jimmy starts with a brief introduction before the quintet dives into the playful theme. Art goes right to work with fiery passion, and then Conte plays with intense emotion. Wynton makes a quick, impressive statement, and then Paul delivers a deeply expressive reading. Art and Jimmie conclude with an inspired improvisation, leading to the finale. Diane is Art Pepper’s heartfelt tribute to his wife. The rhythm section introduces this gentle ballad ahead of Pepper’s beautiful melody. He continues in the opening solo, displaying romantic tenderness. Kelly glides elegantly into the following performance, culminating gracefully with the quartet’s out-chorus and exit.

The title tune, Gettin’ Together, by Art Pepper, is a blues that allows each musician to shine. The quartet gets underway with Art guiding them through the relaxing theme. The saxophonist opens with a lightly swinging statement. Wynton offers a few breezy choruses next, and then Paul strolls leisurely. Finally, Art and Jimmie briefly converse before the theme returns. Lester Koenig produced the album, and Roy DuNann and Howard Holzer were behind the dials. This OJC reissue is an excellent recording with a stellar soundstage and crystal-clear sonics. If you’re a cool jazz fan, I invite you to check out Gettin’ Together by Art Pepper on your next record hunt. It’s a stellar effort in allareas that sounds as fresh as when it was first released and is highly recommended for a spot in your library!

~ Softly As In a Morning Sunrise – Source: JazzStandards.com

~ Rhythm-a-Ning – Source: Wikipedia.org

© 2025 by Edward Thomas Carter

More Posts: choice,classic,collectible,collector,history,instrumental,jazz,music,saxophone