Art Pepper - Thursday Night At The Village Vanguard flac mp3 download

When you consider the lifestyle that Art lead, the hardcore drug abuse, the incarcerations and chaos it was perhaps miraculous that he was even alive in the late 70's. Not only was he alive but he was producing some of the finest live jazz ever recorded. These sessions recorded at the Village Vanguard are perhaps the pick of the bunch. Art was always nervous before playing but give him an appreciative audience and he became absolutely inspired. Every note is played like it's his last. The music is melodic, sometimes frantic other times languid but there is not a note out of place. The standard of the supporting cast here is superb and includes Art's favourite pianist George Cables, bassist George Mraz and the legendary drummer Elvin Jones. Selected music over these sessions is available on 4 separate CDs or a comprehensive 9 disc set. If you like accessible yet technically brilliant jazz these recordings are compulsory!

The complete 9 disc set is critical, in my opinion. The between song banter is priceless.