Description:
The two surviving active titans of West Coast revival Dixieland reed playing are, of course, George Probert and Bob Helm. Proberfs dry, clipped approach to the soprano is light years away from that of Sidney Bechet, who long dominated jazz soprano. Since George started recording with Ory, the FH5, etc., he's developed his own disciples who proudly spread the Probert sound around the current festival circuit. Helm, a member of Lu Walters' trend setting Yerba Buena Jazz Band, is one of jazz's true originals, his quirky twisting lines and thick slurry tone a significant reworking of the bluesy stickwork of one of his obvious influences, the archetypical Johnny Dodds. A Probert Helm meeting on record has long been overdue, but this June 1996 71 minute CD beautifully rectifies the situation, placing the duo in center stage splendidly backed by ace banjo/guitarist Brad Roth and rock steady bassist June Barnes. Probert, usually on lead, is in top form, urgently wailing away on the killer dillers and tenderly breathing heartfelt improvisations on the ballads. While Bob may have lost a half step in terms of instrumental control and solo imagination over the decades, he more than compensates there for with tasty spare drawling counterlines deliciously seasoned by over a half century of experience. Variety is introduced via doubling both artists on clarinet, soprano and alto saxophones, along with a muscular baritone sax chorus from George on "Ain't Misbehavin'", plus three feature numbers, one for each of the principal soloists. Altogether, it's a one of a kind platter that not only works on its own, but also is a special treasure for West Coast revival fans. |