Celebration

Performer: The Modern Jazz Quartet
Artist: Wynton Marsalis; Jimmy Heath; Branford Marsalis; Take 6; Bobby McFerrin; Freddie Hubbard; Illinois Jacquet; Nino Tempo
Producer: Ahmet Ertegun; Arif Mardin
Distributor: WEA (Distributor)

Notes: Modern Jazz Quartet: John Lewis (piano); Milt Jackson (vibraphone); Percy Heath (acoustic bass); Connie Kay (drums). Additional personnel includes: Mickey Roker, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Wynton Marsalis, Bobby McFerrin, Freddie Hubbard, Illinois Jacquet, Nino Tempo, Jimmy Heath, Take 6. Additional engineers: Jeremy Smith, Justin Shirley-Smith, Michael O'Reilly. Recorded at the Power Station and Skyline Studios, New York and Conway Studios, Los Angeles, California on June 17 and 22, 1992 and April 27 and 29, 1993. Track 12 recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival on July 16, 1993. As part of their 40th anniversary, the Modern Jazz Quartet welcomed ten guest artists to their Celebration CD: Bobby McFerrin (brilliant on "Billie's Bounce"), Take 6, Phil Woods, Wynton Marsalis (who gets to show off his technique on "Cherokee"), Illinois Jacquet, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Branford Marsalis, Jimmy Heath, Freddie Hubbard and Nino Tempo. As usual, vibraphonist Milt Jackson and pianist John Lewis also have plenty of solo space, and bassist Percy Heath is perfect in support. Since drummer Connie Kay was ailing in 1992 (but back in action the following year), Mickey Roker fills in on seven of the 13 selections. With the exception of "Django" (which features Phil Woods), and "Bags' Groove," the music sticks to bop standards rather than MJQ standbys. It's an enjoyable and varied set. ~ Scott Yanow

Vibe (3/94, p.108) - "...a winning celebration of the foursome's stature and longevity....it shouldn't be necessary to add that the telepathic interplay, feeling for the blues, and impeccable sense of swing of the Modern Jazz Quartet are evident on every track..." Audio Magazine (6/94, p.94) - "...Throughout its existence, the MJQ has added interest to its work by experimenting in varied musical environs, and A CELEBRATION expands this diversity..."

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