Webster Young - For Lady

1992 European CD reissue.

The Miles Davis-influenced cornetist Webster Young (1932-2003) recorded just one commercially-produced album as a leader, this bouquet to the jazz singer, Billie Holiday. Five of the six tunes herein (including two she co-wrote) were the virtual personal property of Miss Holiday, while the muted, medium-tempo blues “The Lady” was by Young himself. Young’s co-featured soloists were judiciously selected. The late tenor saxophonist Paul Quinichette was, of course, nicknamed “The Vice Pres” for his fealty to the President of the tenor (and Billie’s musical soulmate), Lester Young. And Pianist Mal Waldron, who was the glue on many a Prestige session was Miss Holiday’s last accompanist. Clearly, this group, whose efforts are never mawkish, had the deepest feeling For Lady.