Chet Baker Discography

Title:	The Chet Baker Quartet Cool Baker Vol. 1 Chet Baker Quartet Cool Baker Vol. 2 Pretty/Groovy
Label: Pacific Jazz K18-9260-9259-60 World Pacific 1249
Original issue: Pacific Jazz LP3
Number of Tunes:
MD Recording Date(s):July24,1953-July27,1953 LA,July 29-30,1953
Personnel:Chet Baker(tp)RussFreeman(p)Red Mitchel(b)Bobby White(d) Bob Whitlock(b) for Red Mitchell-July 27 Chet Baker(tp)RussFreeman(p)Carson Smith(b)Larry Bunker(d) July29-30,1953
Review:This attractive four-CD box set gives one a good overview of trumpeter Chet Baker's 1952-57 recordings, a period when he became unexpectedly popular. Baker is heard on four numbers with Gerry Mulligan, with his own quartet (which featured pianist Russ Freeman), in quintets with either altoist Art Pepper or tenor-saxophonist Phil Urso and with larger groups that also include altoist Herb Geller, valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer, and altoist Bud Shank among others. Perfect as an introduction for those just beginning to appreciate Chet Baker, this set will also interest veteran collectors for, in addition to its attractive booklet, it contains four previously unissued selections with Stan Getz (including a 17-minute version of "All the Things You Are") and four selections from what was thought to be a long-lost session in which the trumpeter is backed on some Bob Zieff arrangements by French horn, bass clarinet, bassoon, cello and bass. -- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide