“Chet Baker Quartet featuring Ross Freeman” by Chet Baker

Album: Chet Baker Quartet featuring Ross Freeman

Artist: Chet Baker

Year: 1953

Genre: Cool Jazz

Grade: A-

24-year-old trumpeter Chet Baker shows promising talent on this early LP. Originally released on Pacific Jazz Records in 1953, Chet Baker Quartet featuring Russ Freeman features strong musicianship. From the title pairing on down, it’s the work of a true band: Baker’s natural restraint blends well with pianist Russ Freeman’s classical showmanship, complemented by bassist Carson Smith and drummer Larry Bunker’s interlocked rhythms. Of pre-Chet Baker Sings albums, the Chet Baker Quartet featuring Russ Freeman LP is the best. Gerry Mulligan taught the young trumpeter well.