Live From Vienna 1967
MVD, 2022
8/10
Listen to Live From Vienna 1967
A recently recovered recording of an incredible evening with Dave Brubeck (piano), Eugene Wright (bass) and Joe Morello (drums), these traditionals, covers and an original include many solos in the highly improvised 6 pieces.
“St. Louis Blues”, a tune penned by W.C. Handy and arranged by Brubeck, starts with acrobatic piano playing before swift drums and precise bass enters the lively climate, and “One Moment Worth Years”, an original, follows with a bit of intimacy amid the smooth grooves from the dynamic interaction between the trio.
In the middle, “Swanee River” recruits firm keys and plenty of rhythm into the set’s best tune, while “La Paloma Azul” puts a very sublime spirit on the traditional with much grace alongside a romantic appeal that really showcases Brubeck’s key prowess.
Rounding out the evening is the very adventurous “Someday My Prince Will Come”, where all 3 members play fiercely but focused, and the rumbling energy of “Take The A Train” finishes the listen, where the spontaneous yet meticulous delivery is captured superbly.
This is actually the only known recording of the three playing together, as their sax player, Paul Desmond, didn’t make it to the gig that night. Being the skilled and daring artists they were, Brubeck, Wright and Morello went ahead and made the best of the occasion with a listen that sounds fantastic and relevant 50+ years later.
Travels well with: Calvin Johnson Jr.- Notes Of A Native Son; The Adam Larson Trio- With Love, From Chicago