Name: Lullaby for a Monster
Brand: Steeplechase
SKU: 762419
Price: 24.43 USD
Availability: InStock

Lullaby for a Monster

Rating

Performer Notes

Dexter Gordon Trio: Dexter Gordon (tenor saxophone); Niels-Henning Orsted Pedersen (bass); Alex Riel (drums).
Recorded on June 15, 1976.
Paring his '70s European quartet down to a trio, Gordon--with a substantial legacy behind him--virtually reinvented himself on LULLABY FOR A MONSTER. For a monophonic instrument to function well in a trio setting like this, the lead instrumentalist must have thoroughly mastered the concept of extended harmony, and Gordon had certainly done his homework in that department. WIth only bass and drums for company, the saxophonist weaves his serpentine melodies in and around the implied chord changes, often suggesting alternate harmonic possibilities.
With bassist Niels-Henning Orsted Pedersen taking up more of the spotlight, the sound takes on a surprising new dimension. On such songs as "On Green Dolphin Street" and the title tune, Pedersen sets up a funky, angular vamp over which Gordon can explore to his heart's content. This unprecedented funkiness obviously agrees with Gordon, as he's inspired to new levels of playful improvisation.