Live From The Showboat

This CD reissue brings back most of the earliest recording session by what would become Phil Woods' quintet. Unfortunately, four selections (including the 21 1/2 minute "Brazilian Affair") which were on the original two-LP set were left off of this release. Altoist Woods is joined by guitarist Harry Leahey, pianist Mike Melillo, bassist Steve Gilmore, drummer Bill Goodwin and percussionist Alyrio Lima for the live set. While Lima would soon depart and Leahey was only aboard for a second record, Gilmore and Goodwin spent over 20 years with Woods' group. Highlights of the high-quality modern bop date include "A Sleepin' Bee," "Bye Bye Baby" and a lengthy "Cheek To Cheek." But get the two-LP set if it can be found.