@acman3 Been listening extensively to this playlist for over a week now. Michael Brecker’s brilliance on the tenor is on another level.
Steps Ahead - playlist by Paul Irishman | Spotify
Vibraphonist Mike Mainieri’s rhythm laying down extended grooves is something that I have never heard on this level before from Hutcherson, Jackson, Lionel Hampton or Gary Burton. (to be fair they played in a different context).
Mainieri broke in with Buddy Rich in the late 50s and I plan on listening to his earlier sessions. Here is a couple
With Rich
Caravan - YouTube
Mainieri’s debut album. At age 25, after making his bones with Rich, he already had his own unique style on the vibes.
Waltzin’ In and Out - YouTube
Bassist Eddie Gomez is also outstanding on the acoustic bass. On this Gomez album, Gomez’ Steps Ahead partners, drummer Steve Gadd and Michael Brecker back him, resulting in some excellent music.
Eddie Gomez,Michael Brecker,Steve Gadd,Masahiko Satoh play Puccini’s Walk from Mezgo 1985 - YouTube
Btw, fwiw Steps Ahead has only made one album without Brecker. They are joined by the WDR Big Band on this 2016 album titled "Steppin' Out"Â
Blue Montreux - YouTube
Â
Â
Â