Farmer's Flugelhorn in a Quiet Room
Art Farmer's flugelhorn floats over a rhythm section that knows exactly when to lean in.
The reason to hear this record is the rhythm section, and in particular Cedar Walton, whose piano gives the session its shape. Walton works with a sparse, rolling touch, leaving room for Farmer's flugelhorn to sound warm and unhurried rather than bright or brittle. Sam Jones on double bass and Billy Higgins on drums keep things swinging without ever pushing, which suits Farmer's tone well. The mood is relaxed and conversational.
Farmer himself is a player who always sounded more interested in melody than in display, and the flugelhorn suits that temperament. Here he takes his time, phrasing around the beat and letting the ballads breathe. The record is not built around fireworks, and anyone expecting a blowing session may find it gentle. Listen for how the trio responds to his lines, adjusting dynamics in small ways that reward close attention.
Where does it sit in his catalog? It is not usually the first place to start. If you want Farmer at his most vivid, begin with Moanin' (1958) or his earlier Blue Note work, then come to this later, quieter session. It is a solid record for committed fans of mainstream postbop, and a pleasant one for anyone who enjoys hearing a veteran trumpeter settle comfortably into his sound.
Who's playing
Where next?
More by Art Farmer
All 32 albums →
The musicians on this record
Eastern Rebellion 1975
Cedar Walton
plays piano here
plays piano here
♫
The Oracle 1989
Billy Higgins
plays drums (drum set) here
plays drums (drum set) here
