Chick Corea - Bouncin' With Bud

Taken from "Remembering Bud Powell" (1997)

Chick Corea (piano); Kenny Garrett (alto saxophone); Joshua Redman (tenor saxophone); Wallace Roney (trumpet); Christian McBride (bass); Roy Haynes (drums)

Recorded at Mad Hatter Studios, Los Angeles, California, 1997

"Remembering Bud Powell" is not the run-of-the-mill tribute album where less than memorable performances of rehashed standards constitute an homage to Bird, Dizzy or Miles. This is a project of considerable forethought and dedication. Corea has assembled a stunning group of performers including saxophonists Kenny Garrett and Joshua Redman, trumpeter Wallace Roney, bass phenom Christian McBride and bebop pioneer Roy Haynes on drums. Together they form a powerful unit that masterfully executes a rousing commendation of the musical brilliance of the great bop pianist. Corea's rhythmic piano style lends itself well to Powell's complex compositions like the swinging opener "Bouncin' With Bud." Haynes punches and jabs the horn line on a frantically exciting reading of "Willow Grove." Corea's reflective solo intro to "Dusk In Sandi" recalls Powell's often forgotten lyrical side. Turning back to straight bebop, Powell's "Oblivion" and later "Tempus Fugit" give the band an intense workout. Of special note, Corea's own "Bud Powell" is a radiant piece that captures Powell's rhythmic flair while gliding through a beautifully cascading harmonic progression.