This reissue not only showcases Herbie Mann’s versatility but also captures the breezy sophistication of West Coast jazz at its finest—a testament to the timeless appeal of these musicians and their remarkable synergy.
Fresh Sound Records
Personnel: Tracks (1-7): Herbie Mann – Bass Clarinet; Jimmy Rowles – Piano; Buddy Clark – Bass; Mel Lewis – Drums Tracks (8-11): Herbie Mann – Flute; Jimmy Rowles – Piano; Buddy Clark – Bass; Mel Lewis – Drums
Tracks 1-6: Great Ideas of Western Mann (Riverside) / Track 7: Blues for Tomorrow (Riverside Compilation) / Tracks 8-11: The Magic Flute of Herbie Mann (Verve)
We all know Herbie Mann as the celebrated flute player, but many may not realize he also explored the bass clarinet. In 1957, Mann released GREAT IDEAS OF WESTERN MANN, a likely first in jazz history where the leader plays entirely on bass clarinet. Remarkably, it was also the first Riverside release recorded on the West Coast.
Here, Mann approaches the bass clarinet with the same personality and swing he brings to the flute, giving the instrument a lighter, more playful character than its usual brooding reputation. Stylistically, it’s a textbook West Coast bop session, with a youthful Jack Sheldon shining on both open and muted trumpet. The rhythm section, Jimmy Rowles on piano, Buddy Clark on bass, and Mel Lewis on drums, keeps things tight and swinging throughout.
Sheldon’s open trumpet tone kicks off Miles Davis‘ ‘The Theme’ with a clarity that’s striking yet inviting, free of any harsh edges. The bass clarinet, with its naturally deep and shadowy timbre, takes on a contemplative, almost elegant character in Mann’s hands. Jimmy Rowles on piano was a perfect fit with his understated style exuding quiet sophistication and a sense of knowing exactly what the moment calls for.
Cole Porter’s ‘Get Out Of Town’ is a mid-tempo beauty. Mann takes off with Porter’s melody and runs with it, everyone comping behind him. Sheldon plays a beautiful muted solo that carries a warmth and sparkle that draws you in. Rowles solos in his typical light and conversational way with the addition of a couple of subtle harmonic surprises. Buddy Clark’s bass has a warm, steady pulse and he makes the other players sound better by always being in the right place at the right time.
Rowles and Clark trade a lovely duet on ‘A Stella Performance’ before Mann takes center stage. Mel Lewis keeps things flowing with his relaxed, swinging approach to timekeeping, subtle with plenty of swing. Sheldon steps in with another outstanding open horn solo, full of character and finesse.
This reissue not only showcases Herbie Mann’s versatility but also captures the breezy sophistication of West Coast jazz at its finest—a testament to the timeless appeal of these musicians and their remarkable synergy.
