Lullaby of Birdland

AMG Review of Lullaby of Birdland

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

This interesting match-up works out well. Barry Harris is the definitive ebop pianist, often sounding close to Bud Powell but also influenced by Thelonious Monk and Tadd Dameron. Lee Konitz was one of the very few altoists of the late '40s who did not sound like a close relative of Charlie Parker, instead developing his own cool tone and thoughtful improvising approach. Konitz and Harris have not crossed paths all that often through the years but they joined forces for an engagement at Birdland in 1991. With bassist Calvin Hill and drummer Leroy Williams offering swinging support, Konitz and Harris explore seven ebop standards, with the pianist taking "Cherokee" as his feature. The two stylists mix together just fine. Konitz's sweet/sour tone and melancholy moods are joyfully uplifted by Harris' mastery of ebop.