“THE REMARKABLE CARMELL JONES”

APRIL 4TH, 2023

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INTRO

Greetings, fellow jazz aficionados. Jason here, and today, we delve into the smooth sounds of Carmel Jones. The remarkable Carmel Jones, originally released in 1961 and long vanished from the U.S. vinyl market, has been graciously resurrected with a remarkable Tone Poet reissue. It arrives adorned with meticulously replicated original cover art, and delivers one of the finest auditory experiences one can procure on vinyl.

Carmel Jones: A Pioneering Talent

Carmel Jones, a luminary trumpeter, is celebrated through this record, just one of the six productions where he shone as bandleader. His association with the venerable Pacific Jazz label is a vital chapter in his illustrious career. Jones, born in 1936, initially cut his teeth on the vibrant West Coast jazz scene, rubbing shoulders with luminaries like Dexter Gordon, Shelly Manne, and Frank Butler.

A Stellar Lineup

On this masterpiece, Jones orchestrates an ensemble of lesser-known yet tremendously talented artists. Harold Land graces the tenor saxophone, Frank Strazier dazzles on the piano, while Gary Peacock lays down resounding bass lines, and Leon Pettis keeps the rhythmic pulse with his drumming. While these names might not be as ubiquitous as the giants of jazz, they contribute to a captivating and harmonious soundscape.

Harold Land, famed for his work as a sideman, embarked on some exceptional collaborations. On the piano, Frank Strozier, though relatively uncelebrated in jazz circles, performs splendidly on this record. His harmonically rich chords breathe life into the tunes on this album.

The Enchanting Melodies

This opus kicks off with Duke Ellington's "I'm Gonna Go Fishin'". Here, pianist Frank Strozier's meticulous play adds unique harmony to the bluesy composition. Tenor Land and Strozier engage in melodious dialogues, while Jones showcases his polished trumpet artistry. The journey continues with Jones strategically opting for a subtle presence in the splendid company of Land and Strozier, unfolding the moodier aspects of his musical prowess.

The album's second side commences with Jones' eleven-minute composition, "Sad March," a piece that tantalizingly flirts with the realm of swing. It leads to a more relaxed yet riveting jazz voyage, revealing Jones' more introspective side.

The album concludes with the exuberant "Full Moon and Empty Arms," where the rhythm section excels in creating an irresistible canvas for Jones' improvisations, marking it as one of the record's highlights.

A Sublime, Yet Mellow Record

The remarkable Carmel Jones may not be a high-velocity, toe-tapping, swing-jazz opus. Rather, it's a repository of blues-infused ballads, perfect for unwinding at a dinner party or winding down for a tranquil evening's rest. On the Spinz Vinyl Jazz Scale, it garners three stars, as it falls shy of attaining the five-star status reserved for monumental albums like "Kind of Blue," "Saxophone Colossus," or "Giant Steps."

While some might herald it as a five-star treasure, the remarkable Carmel Jones, for me, embodies a soothing, elegant, and nuanced musical encounter, but lacks that “special something”. With further listening, I may yet discover newfound appreciations in its tapestry.

Masterful Sonic Presentation

Sonically, this Tone Poet reissue raises the bar. Every instrument is distinctly present, solos are bold, and the musicians' proximity to the listener is striking. The vinyl itself is pristine, devoid of distracting surface noise.

Tone Poet, the audiophile reissue label under the Blue Note aegis, steadfastly adheres to excellence. Their releases, crafted from the original master tapes and mastered by the revered Kevin Gray, boast meticulous attention to cover art and gatefolds (although not in this case). Each Tone Poet offering guarantees an unparalleled listening experience.

Who Should Add this Record to Their Collection?

This record caters to those who savor more mellow compositions, akin to the elegant blues. Fans of the legendary Clifford Brown are sure to find aural solace here. The quality of the recording is nothing short of astounding, making this an ideal choice for low-key jazz gatherings or contemplative listening.

Further Musical Expeditions

For those enticed by Carmel Jones' magic, don't hesitate to explore his other recordings. His discography includes "Business Meetin'" from 1962, "Jay Hawk Talk" from 1965, and keep an ear out for his participation on Horace Silver's "Song for My Father," an iconic masterpiece.