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"Things Are Getting Better, Luther Hughes, bass, leader."
by George Fendel
Publication - Jan. 2011
As he has done on several past recordings, Luther Hughes
and his Cannonball-Cotrane Project continue to explore tunes either written
by, performed by, or played in the spirit of Cannonball and 'Trane. This
very "together" quintet of L.A. boppers is led by Hughes and includes
Glenn Cashman, tenor, Bruce Babad, alto, Ed Czech, piano, and Paul Kreibich,
drums. The tunes you'll remember from back in the day include Adderley's "Jive
Samba" and the title tune, "Things Are Getting Better"; Ellington's
classic "Take the Coltrane"; Frank Rosolino's near standard "Blue
Daniel"; and one from the American Songbook, "Softly As In A Morning
Sunrise." The remaining selections are originals from various members
of the quintet, most of which have that unmistakable "energy drink" enthusiasm.
Great straight ahead playing, generous solo space, solid musicianship and
finely tuned ensemble passages are the order of the day. Most importantly,
remember Duke's admonition: "it don't mean a thing …" Not
to worry. It swings with authority.
Primrose Lane, 2010: 74:35.
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