European Concert
Beautifully recorded in Scandinavia in 1960, the Modern Jazz Quartet'sEuropean Concertcaptures the Swiss watch interplay of pianist and musical directorJohn Lewis, vibraphonistMilt Jackson, bassist Percy Heath, and drummer Connie Kay, who replacedKenny Clarkein 1955. Originally released as a two-LP set, the concert boasts John Lewis's signature "Django" and, from his film work, "Skating in Central Park" and "Odds Against Tomorrow." Jackson's show stoppers "Bluesology" and "Bags' Groove" showcase his debt to the blues, and "Pyramid" recalls his gospel origins. Heath takes center stage on "La Ronde," and Kay's spare, in-the-pocket drumming kicks off in a Latin groove on the standard "I'll Remember April." The group puts their hushed, swinging stamp on "I Should Care,"Thelonious Monk's "'Round Midnight," andDuke Ellington's "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)." The MJQ's trademarked blend of bop and Bach is highlighted on the cool, contrapuntal number, "Vendome," which still sounds as innovative today as it did four decades ago.--Eugene Holley Jr.