Webster, Ben -quintet-
Soulville (clear)
After a time with Duke Ellington, expressive tenor saxophonist Ben Webster went solo, an early LP for Norman Granzs Norgran label leading him to his most successful phase with Verve, following a merger. Soulville is easily the best of the bunch, with Websters breathy tones given a fitting accompaniment by Oscar Peterson and his group, then including bassist Ray Brown, guitarist Herb Ellis, and understated drummer Stan Levy; versions of Lover Come Back To Me and Makin Whoopee sound excellent, but bluesy originals such as Last Date and the title track are truly outstanding. A quality set from start to finish.