Perk Up

• Artist: Shelly Manne
• Rating:
• Release Date: 1977
• Total Time: 44:09
• Genre: Jazz

Review

This CD reissue brings back one of the oldest recordings ever issued by the Concord label, a set that was already nine years old when it debuted. Drummer Shelly Manne heads a strong quintet comprised of trumpeter Conte Candoli, altoist Frank Strozier (who doubles on flute), pianist Mike Wofford and bassist Monty Budwig. Although the musicians are all associated with the West Coast hard bop tradition, there are plenty of moments during this stimulating set when they make it obvious that they had been listening with some interest to some of the avant-garde players, allowing the new innovations to open up their styles a bit. The fresh material (two standards and a pair of originals apiece by Strozier, Wofford and pianist Jimmy Rowles) inspire the soloists and the music is not at all predictable. Worth investigating. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide

Tracks

Track Title	Composers	Performers	Time
Perk Up	Jimmy Rowles	Shelly Manne	(5:41)
I Married an Angel	Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart	Shelly Manne	(4:50)
Seer	Frank Strozier	Shelly Manne	(5:47)
Come Back	Frank Strozier	Shelly Manne	(4:49)
Yesterdays	Jerome Kern, West Arkeen, Otto Harbach, J.J. Johnson, Axl Rose, Del James	Shelly Manne	(5:14)
Drinkin' and Drivin'	Jimmy Rowles	Shelly Manne	(6:42)
Bleep	Mike Wofford	Shelly Manne	(6:27)
Bird of Paradise	Mike Wofford	Shelly Manne	(4:39)

Credits

Mike Wofford (Piano), Herb Wong (Liner Notes), Mike Schwab (Design), Kathleen Vance (Project Coordinator), Frank Strozier (Flute), Frank Strozier (Sax (Alto)), Shelly Manne (Producer), George Horn (Mastering), Kent Judkins (Art Direction), Shelly Manne (Drums), Monty Budwig (Bass), Phil Edwards (Remixing), Conte Candoli (Trumpet)