Stretching Out

This all wouldn't have been possible without Harry Edison and Fred Green you know. They know as much about the kind of music that I feel as any men who ever lived. They have earned - with no caterwauling about travel, working conditions, the plight of the jazzman in America today, and related rot- the respect and love of many musicians and listeners, especially those who were around to sop up that Basie band in the early '40s. They are, truly, giants: yesterday through, and inclusive of, tomorrow. The album was recorded at Nola's penthouse from 10 AM to 4 PM on a Sunday afternoon in December and it was fun, fun, fun and happiness. What I wouldn't give to play with a band like this every night! Ah well, back to the workroom and some more of that score paper so have a good time at the funeral and a good day to all. (From Bob Brookmeyer's original liner notes)