Lighthouse at Laguna [live]

by Scott YanowIn 1955, the Lighthouse All-Stars frequently played away from their homebase. On this live set, they are heard appearing two hours away from the Lighthouse, at the Irvine Bowl in Laguna Beach. The All-Stars of the time (altoist Bud Shank, Bob Cooper on tenor, trombonist Frank Rosolino, pianist Claude Williamson, bassist/leader Howard Rumsey and drummer Stan Levey, but surprisingly no trumpet) perform five numbers, including features for Shank on flute and Rosolino, and support guitarist Barney Kessel on "'Round Midnight." In addition, pianist Hampton Hawes' trio (with bassist Red Mitchell and drummer Shelly Manne) romps on "Walkin'" and a heated "The Champ." This fine all-around survey of the modern jazz mainstream of 1955 is currently available as a CD reissue.