Dexter Gordon - Daddy Plays The Horn

180-gram vinyl

"During a period of Dexter Gordon's (tenor sax) life — when he was deep in the throws of chronic drug addiction — the artist was miraculously able to reignite his career during the latter part of 1955. After several years of being out of the spotlight, Gordon resurfaced on the Big Apple-based indie Bethlehem imprint with the half-dozen sides that comprise Daddy Plays the Horn (1956). Joining him as key constituents of the credited Dexter Gordon Quartet are Kenny Drew (piano), Leroy Vinnegar (bass), and Larry Marable (drums). Although the support team provides Gordon top-notch contributions throughout, it is unquestionably Drew who offers the most in terms of active interaction and his prominence can not be overstated. Nowhere is that as noticeable as the good-natured interaction heard on the disc's opener, the Gordon-penned title composition 'Daddy Plays the Horn.' In fact it could be argued that Drew enhances the tenor to the point of practically being a co-leader.

"The update of Charlie 'Bird' Parker's bop standard "Confirmation" is taken at a steady mid-tempo pace, allowing plenty of room for the participants to have their say and not get in the way of the melody. Gordon seems considerably more relaxed and comfortable as he spreads line upon line of inspired improvisation. Drew is once again a real treat to hear briefly taking charge of the rhythm section. The pair of ballads on Daddy Plays the Horn are nothing short of stellar and stand as simple, emotive expressions unto themselves. 'Darn That Dream' embraces the warmth of Gordon's tenor as his sensual phrasing leaves just enough space for Drew to sonically bridge the gap with his own unhurried and stylish chords. The generically monikered 'Number Four' is anything but ordinary." — All Music Guide

Side 1

1. Daddy Plays The Horn

2. Confirmation

3. Darn That Dream

Side 2

1. Number Four

2. Autumn In New York

3. You Can Depend On Me

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