Remember

by Scott YanowBrothers Warren and Allan Vaché do not play together all that often but they always make a perfect musical team. This 1998 recording, which was reissued in 2007, is fairly obscure but is one of their very best joint recordings. The opening number, "Just Friends," is given such an exciting treatment, with hot tradeoffs and a pair of almost unaccompanied horn ensembles, that it would justify this set's existence if the rest of the performances were subpar. Fortunately they are not. Warren Vaché's tone on cornet is displayed at its most beautiful on "London by Night," while clarinetist Allan Vaché romps through his feature, "I'll Remember April." Warren is inspired on Bud Freeman's tongue twister, "The Eel's Nephew," Allan plays simply and with feeling on "Londonderry Air," and pianist Eddie Higgins is showcased with the rhythm section on "If Dreams Come True." In addition, guitarist Howard Alden is always well worth hearing, while the rhythm team of bassist Phil Flanigan and drummer Ed Metz, Jr. keep the music swinging. Even with a few missteps, such as a so-so version of "All Blues" and a few loose moments on "Tangerine," this is a memorable set. Highly recommended.