Booker Little - 1960
Trumpeter Booker Little had a five year career. He died at 23 years of age. In those five short years he did significant albums with both John Coltrane (Africa/Brass) and Eric Dolphy (Far Cry) and played on eight albums with Max Roach (including the important ‘Freedom Now Suite’ – ‘We Insist!’). He also did a documented two week residency at the Five Spot in New York. ‘Grand Valse’ is from Booker Little’s self titled second session as leader. His beautiful, declarative, open sound is on full display here.
Little’s waltz places the emphasis on the first beat of each bar. It is another way that Jazz incorporates a poly-rhythmic feel. Link to the Lesson called ‘Gospel’ for a discussion of the play of 6/8 and 4/4 (Link). It’s like the piece is in 4/4 and 3/4 at the same time.