AMG Review of At the Jazz Workshop

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

This 1998 CD reissues the recording Cookin' the Blues and adds one selection only previously available on a sampler, plus three unissued cuts from the same date. Although James Moody, who is heard here on tenor, flute and alto, utilizes a septet that includes trumpeter Howard McGhee, he is the main soloist throughout. The set finds Moody mostly emphasizing the blues at mid-to-fast tempos, in addition to playing particularly memorable versions of ballads "It Might as Well Be Spring," "'Round Midnight" and the swinger "Stablemates." Moody's friend, singer Eddie Jefferson has three features: "Disappointed" (based on "Lady Be Good"), Horace Silver's "Sister Sadie," and a fine remake of "Moody's Mood for Love." Throughout the date, James Moody is heard in prime form on all three of his instruments; overall, this is one of his strongest sets.