Due to his timeless style and relatively few recordings, Freddie Redd is a legend. A fine bop pianist who was an associate of his idols Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, Redd (62 at the time of this set) will probably always be best-known for his work on the play The Connection. Although maintaining a low profile, Redd had been playing continuously through the decades. One listen to his unaccompanied rendition of Powell's "I'll Keep Loving You," his very memorable original "I'm Gonna Be Happy" and his magical version of "I'll ...
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Due to his timeless style and relatively few recordings, Freddie Redd is a legend. A fine bop pianist who was an associate of his idols Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, Redd (62 at the time of this set) will probably always be best-known for his work on the play The Connection. Although maintaining a low profile, Redd had been playing continuously through the decades. One listen to his unaccompanied rendition of Powell's "I'll Keep Loving You," his very memorable original "I'm Gonna Be Happy" and his magical version of "I'll Remember April" makes it obvious that Redd is an unrecognized giant. Bassist Al McKibbon and drummer Billy Higgins offer short solos and sympathetic support on this highly recommended trio set, which also has fine versions of "I'll Remember April," "'Round Midnight" and "All the Things You Are." ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi
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