Introduction:
John Lewis, best known for his work with the Modern Jazz Quartet (MJQ), carved out a significant niche for himself in the jazz world with his sophisticated compositions and distinctive piano style. One of his most rewarding endeavors outside the MJQ is the album “The Wonderful World of Jazz,” released in 1961. This album not only showcases Lewis’ prowess as a pianist and composer but also brings together an impressive ensemble of jazz musicians, creating a rich tapestry of sound that stands the test of time.
The Making of “The Wonderful World of Jazz:”
The album was recorded over three sessions in New York City, spanning July 29 and September 8 & 9, 1960. These sessions brought together a stellar cast of musicians, each contributing their unique voice to the project. The production was handled by Nesuhi Ertegun and Tom Dowd, two figures synonymous with quality jazz recordings on the Atlantic label.
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The Ensemble:
Lewis assembled an extraordinary group of musicians for this album:
- John Lewis: Piano, Arranger
- Jim Hall: Guitar
- George Duvivier: Bass
- Connie Kay: Drums
- Herb Pomeroy: Trumpet (tracks 1, 4 & 6)
- Gunther Schuller: French Horn (tracks 4 & 6)
- Eric Dolphy: Alto Saxophone (tracks 4 & 6)
- Benny Golson: Tenor Saxophone (tracks 4 & 6)
- Paul Gonsalves: Tenor Saxophone (track 1)
- James Rivers: Baritone Saxophone (tracks 4 & 6)
- Arif Mardin: Arranger (track 6)
The Tracks:
- “Body and Soul” (Frank Eyton, Johnny Green, Edward Heyman, Robert Sour) – 15:24: The album opens with an expansive 15-and-a-half-minute rendition of “Body and Soul,” featuring one of tenor saxophonist Paul Gonsalves’ finest solos. This track is a masterclass in jazz interpretation, with each musician contributing to a deeply emotional and technically superb performance.
- “I Should Care” (Sammy Cahn, Axel Stordahl, Paul Weston) – 4:50: “I Should Care” showcases Lewis’ lyrical piano style. This track epitomizes the elegance and emotional depth that Lewis brought to his music.
- “Two Degrees East, Three Degrees West” – 5:35: This composition, a remake of an earlier piece by Lewis, is a standout track featuring the core quartet. The seamless communication between the musicians highlights their deep understanding of each other’s playing, resulting in a performance that is both cohesive and spontaneous.
- “Afternoon in Paris” – 9:55: “Afternoon in Paris” features a diverse ensemble, including trumpeter Herb Pomeroy, French horn player Gunther Schuller, tenor saxophonist Benny Golson, and guitarist Jim Hall. Eric Dolphy’s alto saxophone solo stands out as a highlight, cutting through the ensemble with his unique and adventurous style.
- “I Remember Clifford” (Benny Golson) – 3:25: This tribute to the late Clifford Brown is a poignant and beautifully rendered piece, featuring tender performances from all involved. Lewis’ piano playing is particularly evocative, capturing the melancholy and reverence of Golson’s composition.
- “The Stranger” (Arif Mardin) – 5:39: Arranged by Arif Mardin, “The Stranger” is a bonus track on the CD reissue. It features intricate arrangements and sophisticated harmonies, showcasing Mardin’s skill as an arranger and the versatility of the musicians.
- “If You Could See Me Now” (Tadd Dameron, Carl Sigman) – 10:21: This bonus track adds another layer of depth to the album, with its extended format allowing for more expansive solos and interplay. It’s a fitting conclusion to the reissue, offering listeners a fuller picture of the album’s musical landscape.
Reception and Critical Acclaim:
“The Wonderful World of Jazz” was met with high praise upon its release, and it continues to be regarded as one of John Lewis’ most rewarding albums outside of his work with the MJQ.
Critical Reviews:
AllMusic awarded the album 4½ stars, with Scott Yanow describing it as “one of pianist John Lewis’ most rewarding albums outside of his work with the Modern Jazz Quartet.” Yanow highlighted the 15-and-a-half-minute rendition of “Body and Soul” as a standout track, praising Paul Gonsalves’ solo work.
The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings and other jazz guides have consistently noted the album’s significance in the jazz canon, often pointing to the innovative ensemble work and Lewis’ sophisticated compositions.
Legacy:
The album’s legacy is marked by its influence on subsequent generations of jazz musicians. The inclusion of diverse instrumental voices, such as Eric Dolphy’s alto saxophone and Gunther Schuller’s French horn, foreshadowed the more eclectic and experimental directions that jazz would take in the 1960s and beyond.
“The Wonderful World of Jazz:” A Broader Perspective
John Lewis’ “The Wonderful World of Jazz” is not just an album; it’s a statement of the possibilities within jazz. It embodies the spirit of collaboration and the blending of different musical ideas to create something unique and timeless. For fans of jazz history and musicians like Nat King Cole, Tommy Flanagan, or Marilyn Crispell, this album offers a rich listening experience that bridges traditional and modern jazz elements.
The Intersection of Tradition and Innovation:
Lewis’ work on this album exemplifies the intersection of tradition and innovation. His compositions are rooted in the bebop and hard bop traditions, yet they incorporate modernist elements that push the boundaries of the genre. This balance is particularly evident in tracks like “Afternoon in Paris,” where the interplay between the traditional rhythm section and the more avant-garde contributions of Dolphy and Schuller creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
The Role of the Producer:
The production work of Nesuhi Ertegun and Tom Dowd cannot be overlooked. Their ability to capture the nuanced performances of the musicians and the overall sound quality of the recording played a crucial role in the album’s success. The clarity and warmth of the recording allow the intricate details of the music to shine through, providing an immersive experience for the listener.
Final Thoughts:
“The Wonderful World of Jazz” is a testament to John Lewis’ vision as a composer and bandleader. It’s an album that not only showcases his talents but also brings together some of the finest musicians of the era to create a work of enduring beauty and significance. Whether you’re a long-time jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers something for everyone, making it a must-listen in any jazz collection.
In revisiting “The Wonderful World of Jazz,” we are reminded of the profound impact that John Lewis and his collaborators had on the evolution of jazz. Their work continues to inspire and influence musicians and listeners alike, proving that the world of jazz is indeed a wonderful place.
References:
- Cook, R. & Morton, B. (2008). The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings. Penguin Books.
- “The Wonderful World of Jazz” album cover art. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:The_Wonderful_World_of_Jazz.jpg
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