Dave Brubeck Quartet, The - Brubeck Time! '1955

Tracks list

In 1954 popularity and controversy swirled around Dave Brubeck. On one hand, his
appeal on college campuses brought him great notoriety, culminating with his
appearance on Time magazines November 8 cover--hence the records title. On the
other hand, many musicians and critics dismissed his cool-toned, classically
influenced cerebral work as decidedly nonjazz, and they were resentful of the
acclaim. The recordings on this record, their first studio effort for Columbia,
almost seem as if Brubeck and alter ego Paul Desmond have something to prove.
Most of the songs are up-tempo, buoyant, and energetic, especially for the cool
Brubeck. His quartet, anchored by Bob Bates and Joe Dodge, swings softly but
firmly on a collection of six standards and two originals. At its best, Brubecks
group had a potent drive and pulse, even though they were often subtle,
submerged, or implied. Desmonds alto work is playful and childlike; his airy and
jumpy lines are sublimely lyrical, humorous, well constructed, and chock-full of
pithy quotes. Desmonds alto was the perfect foil for Brubecks serious, angry,
and tense piano. The two display a tremendous rapport whether it be through
contrapuntal lines or call and response. One original, Stompin for Mili, named
for photographer and filmmaker Gjon Mili, generates as much heat as any Brubeck
recording. Mili, whod expressed strong doubts as to the quartets worth, was
present in the studio when it was recorded, and Brubeck himself calls the song a
musical expression of rage and frustration. Some collectors might prefer the
older compilation Interchanges 54, which includes the full Brubeck Time and four
songs from the out-of-print live set Jazz: Red, Hot and Cool. --Marc Greilsamer

Tracklist:
1 01. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Audrey (Remastered) (03:33)
1 02. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Jeepers Creepers (Remastered) (04:56)
1 03. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Pennies From Heaven (Remastered) (06:27)
1 04. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Why Do I Love You? (Remastered) (05:41)
1 05. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Stompin For Mili (Remastered) (05:26)
1 06. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Keepin Out Of Mischief Now (Remastered) (05:05)
1 07. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - A Fine Romance (Remastered) (03:48)
1 08. The Dave Brubeck Quartet - Brother, Can You Spare A Dime? (Remastered)
(05:18)

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