Bold Conceptions

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Bold Conceptions is Bob James' debut album made in 1962. This is also his first jazz trio album when he formed a band called the Bob James Trio, which includes bassist Ron Brooks and drummer Robert "Bob" Pozar.

[edit] Review

From the first powerful kick of A Moment's Notice, it is clear that it is not the Bob James from the Taxi TV theme, the fusion-flavored Fourplay group, or the smooth pop albums done with Earl Klugh and David Sanborn. This the original Bob James- his very first album, in fact recorded at age 22 (and produced by Quincy Jones) as a prize for winning the 1962 Collegiate Jazz Festival. Not only the trio win as a unit, bur each member won as promising player on his own instrument (James also won as leader). This collection, largely bop in its approach, is astonishing in its precocious reach, featuring two of James originals: the intriguing "Quest" and the daringly impressionistic "Trilogy" that involves the playing of oil drums, temple blocks, golf balls, among other things. The trio acquits itself well with the varied, ambitious material, including an ethereal "Nardis," a selection from Leonard Bernstein's ballet, Candide, and a churning rendition of "Birk's Works." The only ballad is a confident, sensitive treatment of "Fly Me to the Moon." The CD also includes two bonus tracks, "Softly As in a Morning Sunrise" and "Ghost Riders in the Sky"; it's unclear whether they were part of the original session, but they are equally playful and joyous. Impressive trio work, great spirit. (Warning: Liner notes are microscopic.)

[edit] Personnel

  • Bob James: Piano
  • Ron Brooks: Bass
  • Robert Pozar: Drums

[edit] Track listing

  • 1. A Moment's Notice
  • 2. Nardis
  • 3. The Night We Call It A Day
  • 4. Trilogy
  • 5. Quest
  • 6. My Love (from Candide)
  • 7. Fly Me to the Moon (aka In Other Words)
  • 8. Birk's Works
  • 9. Softly as in A Morning Sunrise
  • 10. (Ghost) Riders in the Sky
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