The Bebop Serge Chaloff

Original released on LP Capitol T 742 (mono)

(US, 1956)

Serge Chaloff was the first major bebop baritone saxophonist. He is all but forgotten today because he recorded so little material under his own name (he struggled with heroin, then after kicking the habit, developed cancer and died at age 34 in 1957). His tone is breathy, reminiscent of Lester Young, with occasional use of wide vibrato. This is a very nice set featuring an all-star ensemble. Really strong versions of all the tracks here. Highly enjoyable jazz, though not sure I would categorize it as "hard bop." More like exceptional bop/cool jazz. Thoroughly fun and positive music. (in RateYourMusic)