JON EARDLEY

Trumpeter Jon Eardley (1928-1991) made his recording debut with Phil Woods in 1954, when he also hit the jazz big time by replacing Chet Baker in Gerry Mulligans celebrated quartet. For the next few years he played and recorded with Mulligan, including Mulligans outstanding sextet, but also led three excellent record dates for Prestige. His debut quartet album J.E. in Holllywood, (originally called First Sessions) featured a fine Pete Jolly-Red Mitchell-Larry Bunker rhythm section, and is notable for pianist Jollys inventive contributions and the fire, joyful exuberance, taste and imagination of the leader on a thoroughly swinging session. The second album, Hey There, Jon Eardley!, was a NYC quintet date featuring J.R. Monteroseone of the heartening tenors of his generationand another quality rhythm section in which pianist George Syran is a considerable asset. Eardleys work here is singularly powerful. The third LP, The J.E. Seven, with the same rhythm section, was read more...