On Tour: UK

AMG Review of On Tour: UK

Ken Dryden
All Music Guide

Buddy DeFranco used an English rhythm section for this 1984 concert in Scotland, including the phenomenal young guitarist Martin Taylor (known for his work with Stéphane Grappelli), plus veterans Peter Ind on bass and drummer Tony McLennon. The sparks fly as the seasoned clarinetist and Taylor play off one another, jointly improvising an intriguing opening to a brisk interpretation of "Love for Sale," with both men taking plenty of chances in their respective solos, with Taylor even briefly incorporating an excerpt from Bizet's opera Carmen. The pressure also doesn't let up in their blistering performance of "Just Friends." DeFranco and Taylor engage in some brilliant counterpoint in "Autumn Leaves," while Taylor is extensively featured during the introduction to a lovely rendition of "What's New." The balance on this live outing is perfect and it is easy to get the feeling that the musicians felt so inspired that they hated to put down their instruments.