World Tour 1990 [live]

by Scott YanowWhen listening to this CD (recorded in Sydney, Australia), it is best to forget about the all-star personnel in Gene Harris' big band since, except for guitarist Kenny Burrell (who has three short solos), none of the sidemen are heard from individually more than twice. There are no torrid tenor battles or trumpet tradeoffs and "Battle Royal" gives six soloists only two choruses apiece, missing the opportunity to generate some fireworks. What this CD does contain is a variety of swinging charts, blues-based material and ballads in the Count Basie style that mostly showcase the soulful and distinctive piano of Gene Harris. There is a strong uniformity to the set (despite using contributions from seven different arrangers), all of whom have a rather conservative approach. In addition to Harris, trumpeter James Morrison has a nice spot on "A Child Is Born," baritonist Gary Smulyan roars a bit on "Lover," ltoist Jerry Dodgion imitates Johnny Hodges during "Warm Valley" and trumpeter Harry "Sweets" Edison is fine on his "Centerpiece." But in general this orchestra does not live up to the "Superband" title or the great potential of the personnel.