AMG Review of Blues; That's Me!

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Tenor saxophonist Illinois Jacquet is heard in top form throughout this quintet set with pianist Wynton Kelly, guitarist Tiny Grimes, bassist Buster Williams, and drummer Oliver Jackson. The music, which falls between swing, bop and early R&B, is generally quite exciting, especially "Still King," "Every Day I Have the Blues," and the lengthy title cut. A particular surprise is a moody version of "'Round Midnight," which features some surprisingly effective bassoon by Jacquet. This CD reissue is highly recommended.