Dexter Gordon - Misty

2004 release

Recorded in 1965 at Copenhagen's Montmartre Jazzhus, this live concert by tenor saxophone legend Dexter Gordon was the third of five radio broadcasts the tenor man did for Danish radio. Although many believe that Gordon was at a creative peak during the time period of this set, Misty comes from an unfortunately fallow period for him in the studio, as he would only make one album, Setting the Pace with saxophonist Booker Ervin, that same year.

Consequently, these recordings stand as previously unissued testaments to the muscular and tender mid-career brilliance of Gordon. Backing him here are the youthful but ever capable talents of bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and drummer Alex Riel -- 19 and 24 years old respectively -- as well as Gordon's longtime friend from his West Coast days, pianist Kenny Drew. While Misty may only contain four standards that taken together clock in at just over 45 minutes, the playing by all involved is stellar, immediate, and inspired.

AllMusic Review by Matt Collar