This is an engaging performance in which the young New Orleans trumpeter Irvin Mayfield and the patriarch of the Marsalis clan bridge the generation gap to make some fine music. Against the lush backdrop of the Louisiana Symphony Orchestra, the contr
ast between the two men's styles makes for absorbing listening. Marsalis is a pianist of good taste and delicacy and his solos are an ideal foil for Mayfield's expressive trumpet playing. The repertoire takes in songs associated with Burt Bacharach, Nora Jones and Corinne Bailey Rae. AV
Art Pepper: Work of Art (Proper) (Four CD set) (£13.99)This collection offers a fine overview of the early years of the great West Coast altoman whose blend of cool lyricism and fiery passion made his a compelling voice. Discs three and four are worth the price alone, as they brings together two album, on which Pepper works with the Miles Davis rhythm section on the likes of Star Eyes and Tin Tin Deo, and then with the brilliant pianist Carl Perkins on a session that defines the best jazz of the period. But there is much else to enjoy, notably sessions with trumpeter Chet Baker and tenorman Warne Marsh.
Beriot: Violin Concertos Nos. 2, 3 & 5 Naxos 8.555104 £5.99Even in a world overflowing with violin virtuosos, Philippe Quint the soloist in this new release stands out from the crowd. He plays three concertos by Beriot, the Belgium-born rival to Paganini, the works bristling with every violin trick in the book and full of catchy tunes. Quint meets each hurdle with such ease they scarcely exist, the Slovak Radio Symphony in fine form in the substantial orchestral backdrop. So sit back, be amazed at Quint and lap up the charming music at a ridiculous price. DD
Alwyn: Orchestral Music Naxos 8.570704 £5.99Having completed William Alwyn's symphonies, conductor, David Lloyd-Jones and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic turn their attentions to his shorter orchestral scores. They are often tinged with nostalgia for times past as in the Autumn Legend and Death of a Hero written in response to the First World War. Philip Dukes is the distinguished viola soloist in the first Concerto Grosso, a vivacious Overture to a Masque and a lilting view to folk music in the Suite of Scottish Dances complete the disc. Excellent playing throughout and top quality sound. DD
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