Garry Lee/Aaron Caldwell sax Quartet presents: Paul Desmond and the Modern Jazz Quartet!
For many decades commencing in the 1950s two of the most famous quartets in jazz were the Dave Brubeck Quartet and Modern Jazz Quartet. DBQ was based around the melodic alto sax of Paul Desmond – MJQ was based around the blues/bop of Milt Jackson’s vibraphone. In 1971 MJQ recorded with Desmond – Paul Desmond and the Modern Jazz Quartet.
This album has created the catalyst for the coming together of alto saxophonist Aaron Caldwell and vibraphonist Garry Lee. Aaron, who formerly studied Jazz Improvisation with Garry, is forging an impressive reputation as a student at WAAPA and has become a featured soloist with WAYJO. He has put together an ensemble of superb young musicians with Josh Gray guitar, Lucy Browning double bass and Callum Thomson drums. Garry will play vibraphone.
Of course, alto sax and vibes recordings can be found in compositions by Thelonious Monk, Chick Corea and many others so expect a repertoire of lyrical, sophisticated and soul-infused jazz that will underline the two enduring components of jazz – Swing and the Blues.