Bud Powell

Bud Powell

 "Bud in Paris", Xandadu 102

    Powell was the premier bop pianist. (Monk is in a class by himself.) He was a regular in one of Charlie Parker's all-star juggernauts during the early 50's, and the father of an entire school of players that includes, for example. Barry Marris, who's still quite active on the New York scene and who is himself the teacher of Detroit's own Kenn Cox, of CJQ and Guerilla Jam Band fame.

   Powell's most astonishing sides, cut in the mid-Forties, are still available on the aptly entitled The Amazing Bud Powell on 2 volumes for Blue Note. Sadly, like far too many other black artists, Powell succumbed to the killing pressures of the ja subculture. ; Paris, recorded in 1959-60, documents the fresh start he made in that city after five or more years of physical and mental decline here.

    Apparently, the reduction in tension, steady employment, and relative lack of racism these all contributed to Powell's comeback. These sides crackle with bebop pyrotechnics and the pianist's enthusiastic grunt-alongs. Mostly recorded with a trio featuring drummer Kenny Clarke, there's the additional bonus of two cuts with the great tenor player Johnny Griffin (long associated with Monk). These never before available sides constitute a fine introduction or addition to a great pianist's work from a meticulous new company.

                   --- Bill Adler