Tenor-saxophonist Illinois Jacquet recorded steadily for Verve during 1951-57 but unfortunately his recordings have yet to be coherently reissued. This attractive two-LP set from 1982 gives listeners a good sampling of Jacquet's Verve sides (particularly during 1951-54) although it does skip around chronologically. Jacquet is heard in a variety of settings ranging from a quartet with organist Wild Bill Davis to a big band; among his sidemen are pianist Hank Jones, trumpeter Russell Jacquet, baritonists Cecil Payne and Leo Parker and even Count Basie (who sits in on organ for a few numbers). A special highpoint are two songs that match Jacquet with fellow tenor Ben Webster.
The Cool Rage
Illinois Jacquet
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The Cool Rage Review
by Scott Yanow