The Stan Getz Quartet 

Pure Getz

"Pure Getz" is (by my admittedly dubious counting skills) the 90th recording by Stan as either a leader or co-leader. This is by any standard an incredible legacy, and there were more to come. Stan made this recording around the time he turned 55. Although older, none of his skills had diminished; in fact the 1980's would be a decade during which some of his best recordings would be made. 

"Pure Getz" was recorded in January and February of 1982. The rythym section was composed of Jim McNeely (piano), Marc Johnson (bass), and either Victor Lewis or Billy Hart on drums. McNeely, Johnson and Lewis would go on to record several more times with Stan, both live and in the studio. These were all younger men than Stan, and so would have grown up being exposed to his earlier recordings. There is certainly no lack of empathy with the musicians; everyone seems very in tune with the arrangements and the song structures. This is a first rate band that plays with both verve and delicacy, using the appropriate style depending on the number. Marc Johnson, who had been part of the Bill Evan's trio prior to this album, has a tremendous tone and solos with complete aplomb. Stan's tone is magnificent throughout as he moves between ballads, regular tempos and real burners. No hesitation whatsoever in recommending this excellent album.