Art Pepper, Jazz Alto-Saxophonist

 


© Dragan Iljkic


The period 1955/1956 was very productive and successful for Miles Davis quintet. Along with John Coltrane on Tenor Saxophone and rhythm section (Red Garland Piano, Paul Chambers Bass, and Philly Joe Jones Drums), many extraordinary recordings were made - the same rhythm section became a celebrity status.
Producer Lester Koenig came in 1957 to bring this rhythm section into contact with Art Pepper to play a session together. Although Art Pepper did not play for a long time because he had problems with drugs and fears.
The session was kept secret from Pepper to minimize anxiety. Pepper first learnt of it on the morning of the recording session, had never met the other musicians (though he admired them all). Pepper rose to the challenge and recorded the most important album of his career. The album is called "Art Pepper Meets The Rhythm Section", 19 January 1957 recorded.
Together with The Complete Village Vanguard Sessions, in the most famous jazz club Village Vanguard, this session is the most important recording in Art Pepper's life.

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