Art Farmer - Yesterday's Thoughts

Japanese reissue

With Art Farmer's phenomenal output of recordings as a leader during his long career, it isn't surprising to run across obscure gems such as this pair of 1975 studio sessions recorded in New York for release in Japan by Eastwind.

Joined by frequent collaborator Cedar Walton on piano, as well as bassist Sam Jones and drummer Billy Higgins, the mellow flugelhornist excels on the ballads that make up the majority of the album. "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life" begins slowly, with the rhythm section slowly pushing the tempo, as if to push for an answer to the title of the song. "Namely You" is played as a brisk waltz, while the snappy approach to "Alone Together" finds the leader at the top of his game.

A reworking of ex-partner Benny Golson's "Yesterday's Thoughts" is followed by the only up-tempo tune present, Walton's invigorating "Firm Roots." Both Jones and Higgins provide the solid support that they delivered on numerous dates throughout their respective careers. Don't expect to find this long-unavailable LP quickly or at a bargain price, but it is well worth the effort to acquire it.

 AllMusic Review by Ken Dryden