Critic's Review
Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
The 1958 Au Chat Qui Peche club date in Paris features one of trumpeter Donald Byrd's earliest live recordings as a leader, even if its fidelity is a little bit even, due to the fact that it was probably recorded by one of the musicians or perhaps a fan. At times it seems like Byrd is having intonation problems with his horn, but it is due to the wow of the tape and the prominence of the piano and drums in respect to his instrument. Joining Byrd are Walter Davis, Jr. (fighting the common battle with an out of tune night club piano), bassist Doug Watkins, and drummer Art Taylor. Bobby Jaspar, who died far too young, is a guest on several tracks, contributing some fine tenor sax to "All the Things You Are" and "Parisian Thoroughfare," both of which are extended jams, with the latter having an especially humorous and longer than usual introduction. Jaspar plays flute during "Well You Needn't," which is sandwiched in the middle of a medley between "Off Minor" and a quick sign-off tag of "Salt Peanuts." The historic nature of this live CD will make it appealing to fans of hard bop, especially avid collectors of Byrd's early work.
