Curtis Fuller

by Ron Wynn Curtis Fuller belongs in the select circle with J.J. Johnson, Kai Winding and a few others who make the trombone sound fluid and inviting rather than awkward. His ability to make wide octave leaps and play whiplash phrases in a relaxed, casual manner is a testament to his skill. Fullers solos and phrases are often ambitious and creative, and hes worked in several fine bands and participated in numerous great sessions. Fuller studied music in high school, then began developing his skills in an army band, where he played with Cannonball Adderley. He worked in Detroit with Kenny Burrell and Yusef Lateef, then moved to New York. Fuller made his recording debut as a leader on Transition in 1955, and recorded in the late 50s for Blue Note, Prestige, United Artists and Savoy. He was a charter member of The Jazztet with Benny Golson and Art Farmer in 1959, then played in Art Blakeys Jazz Messengers from 1961 to 1965. There were additional recording dates for Warwick, Smash/Trip, Epic, and Impulse in the 60s. Fuller toured Europe with Dizzy Gillespies big band in 1968, then did several sessions in New York. During the 70s, he experimented for a time playing hard bop arrangements in a band featuring electronic instruments, heading a group with guitarist Bill Washer and Stanley Clarke. He concluded that phase with the 73 album Crankin. Fuller toured with the Count Basie band from 1975 to 1977, and did dates for Mainstream, Timeless, and Bee Hive. He co-led the quintet Giant Bones with Winding in 1979 and 1980, and played with Art Blakey, Cedar Walton and Benny Golson in the late 70s and early 80s. During the 80s, Fuller toured Europe regularly with the Timeless All-Stars, and performed and recorded with the revamped Jazztet in addtion to leading a fine session for Savoy in 1993.