(1986) Mal Waldron/Jackie McLean - Left Alone '86 ***1/2

 

With: Jackie McLean (alto saxophone), Mal Waldron (piano), Herbie Lewis (bass), Eddie Moore (drums)
Record date: September 1, 1986

Friends for life, Waldron and McLean reunited quite often. There are only two official records of those reunions. The first was for Victor Japan in 1976, this one on Paddle Wheel was the last in 1986. Just like that 1976 recording this was recorded in Japan where both guys were famous for their 1960 Bethlehem recording 'Left Alone'. And just like the 1976 session Mal and Jackie decided to play mainly jazz standards. It was recorded live altough there is no audience heard between the songs. Not sure if there is even an audience as Mal has played more than only this occasion in a concert hall without an audience. It was also captured on video: the whole concert is on Youtube!

So what to think about the music? Well it's all pretty much ok. They definitly do not blow your mind and both Jackie and Mal have made far more interesting music. But it's definitly no punishment listening to it. Both musicians are in excellent form and the band is a very steady one. Drummer Eddie Moore was to appear lots of times in Mal's bands from this time. The new version of their classic Left Alone is beutifully played. Other songs like All of Me swing gently while ballads are played with feeling. But it is very, very straightforward and just like their previous recording it feels like a missed opportunity. McLean was one of the most innovative alto saxophonists in jazz history with masterpieces like 'Let Freedom Ring' and 'One Step Beyond'. And Mal... well I suppose I have said enough about his innovative qualities on this blog already. With that in mind, an album full of very straightahead jazz standards is just a little bit boring. The one song where one can really hear the potential of this golden duo is on the pretty long 'Minor Pulsation'. Here is plenty of space for every bandmember to stretch out. McLean is soloing in his oldfashioned raw bluesy style and Mal plays a very intense solo full of interaction with both rhythm section members. Exciting music!

Like most Paddle Wheel releases this record is still easy to get for a low price. Both on vinyl as cd. The cd version contains a bonus: an extra version of Left Alone. If youre a fan of both like I am you'd probably want this. But I can't say it's on the turntable a lot. It's really recommended to watch the show on Youtube.