Sarabanda

by Ken DrydenThis is probably the most unusual CD in Martin Taylor's discography, as it includes very dull smooth jazz along side classic swing. The forgettable fluff includes Al Jarreau's tepid "Mornin'" and a cover of Dionne Warwick's tedious hit "Deja Vu." Fortunately the good tracks outnumber the weak: the sterling duet of "Don't Blame Me" with vioilinist Stephane Grappelli, brilliant solo workouts of "They Can't Take That Away From Me" and "I Remember Clifford," and a stunning "I Got Rhythm," featuring trumpeter Sal Marquez and pianist Mike Wofford along with the very talented leader. It's possible that the lack of focus on a release like this one helped put Gaia Records out of business in the early '90s; this CD won't be easy to find for Martin Taylor fans.