Live At Room At The Top
Reel To Real, 2022
8/10
Listen to Live At Room At The Top
A double disc the captures a live performance from September 25, 1972 at the University of Alberta, the baritone saxophone wizard Pepper Adams finds himself in the company of Tommy Banks on piano, Bobby Cairns playing electric bass and Tom Doran behind the drum kit.
“Three And One” opens the listen with lively piano alongside adventurous sax and crisp drumming as the 17+ minutes unfolds with plenty of free jazz spirit, and “Civilization and Its Discontents” follows with a calmer approach of soulful textures and moments of intimacy.
In the middle, the swift pace of “Oleo” bops and shakes with a very stylish delivery, while “‘Tis” showcases the acrobatic drumming alongside the dynamic musicianship that’s all at once furious and meticulous.
Rounding out the listen is the calm and melodic “Time On My Hands” and “Stella By Starlight”, where the former benefits much from the frisky bass lines and flowing brass, and the latter shuffles and glides with a timeless and upbeat demeanor that sounds just as great in 1972 as it does today.
Adams is at the top of his game across the set, and his strong attention to rhythm and melody is certainly present, as is his leadership skills, which there isn’t much documentation of. Sadly, he passed away much too young, but will always be remembered for his uncompromising spirit and imaginative handling of his instrument.
Travels well with: Dave Brubeck Trio- Live From Vienna 1967; The Adam Larson Trio- With Love, From Chicago