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This
tribute to the music of Johnny Hodges by Bobby Watson and the High Court of Swing is a
gorgeous collection of instrumental jazz. Watson’s High Court of Swing includes a
stunning cast of brilliant musicians including Irving Stokes on trumpet and Jim Hartog on
baritone sax. Although this album was recorded live, the sound and the mix here are
excellent.
It opens with “The Jeep is Jumpin.” This track is upbeat
and soulful with enough wind to power a tornado. This is followed by a lovely
interpretation of “Good Queen Bess.” Watson’s sax on this track is passionate, with a
truly distinctive voice and complemented by some wonderful clarinet stylings by Bill
Easley. “Jeep’s Blues” is sultry and romantic with some fabulous trumpet solos by Irving
Stokes. It closes with an interpretation of “Day Dream” that is easy to get lost
in.
This album is a beautiful festival of wind and a perfect complement to
any jazz lover’s collection.
