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Tenor saxophonist Zoot Sims and valve-trombonist Bob Brookmeyer were musicians made for each other. Weaned on the classic sound of the late-1930s Count Basie band, they nevertheless cut their jazz teeth in the heady days of Bebop, emerging with a novel jazz language, one informally marrying the best of both old and new: mainstream. Although they were to share the stage in bands led by many celebrated leaders, the music these two players made on a series of studio recorded quintet sessions during 1956 represented the epitome of their synergistic, swing-to-bop approach. Released on several different labels, this music has never previously been compiled in one collection. Not only does this release contain the contents of the three original quintet albums The Modern Art of Jazz, Tonites Music Today and Whooeee, it features two rare bonus tracks taken from obscure, long-deleted, anthologies. The album also comes complete with period photographs and an extensive booklet essay by saxophonist and author Simon Spillett, telling the fascinating story of the men who made this timeless music. REVIEWS This is honest, uncompromising stuff, uncluttered by fads or fashions, it's classic tunes with modern harmonies. Hard swinging and cool toned. - John Martin (The Jazz Rag) The music is inspired. New York's finest, at the top of their games. This period was near to his best ever. - Steve Voce (Jazz Journal)
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