Jazzcraft Studio Recordings 1978-79

Jazzcraft is a new addition to the Storyville family of labels. It was founded by Lars Johansen, who went to New York and Los Angeles in 1977, 1978, and 1979 for the purpose of recording some of the key players of post-war jazz. In various combinations, they perform music that is a staple in the Bop repertoire: compositions by Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk, Tadd Dameron, Oscar Pettiford, Fats Navarro, and Bud Powell, right up to John Coltrane. The initial release of three double albums features performances by stellar groups under the leadership of such mainstays of modern post-war jazz as Howard McGhee, Teddy Edwards, and Benny Bailey. The “sidemen” are also of up-front caliber, including Barry Harris, Sonny Redd, and Art Hillery—all stunningly propelled by the likes of Leroy Vinegar, Lisle Atkinson, Billy Higgins, and Bobby Durham.