New Releases : For Trombone Artistry, J. J. Johnson Heads the Pack

J. J. JOHNSON

“Vivian”

Concord Jazz

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J. J. Johnson’s supremacy remains unsurpassed. While other innovative artists have come and gone, Johnson--the first trombonist to play be-bop----still heads the pack.

The values that emerged during the be-bop era of the 1940s remain in full force here, as the leader focuses mainly on a well-chosen set of ballads. Johnson’s sound, phrasing and concept are well displayed as he assesses the works of Gershwin, Berlin and Porter.

A few cuts have enough of a beat (“Frankie and Johnny,” “But Not for Me”) to provide a touch of variety. On “There Will Never Be Another You” everyone has a chance to stretch out: Johnson ad-libs at length, followed by Rob Schneiderman’s sympathetic piano, Ted Dunbar’s too-often-neglected guitar, Rufus Reid’s bass and, in a brief exchange of fours, the drumming of Akira Tana.

Dedicated to Johnson’s late wife of 43 years, “Vivian” (there is no title tune) is a masterful reminder of a uniquely durable talent that has too long been relegated to the sidelines.