Sax giant, Bud Shank is joined by Kenny Barron (piano), Lonnie Plaxico (bass) and Victor Lewis (drums) for this live Birdland CD

The stamina and resilience gained by Bud Shank in the Kenton ranks during the early 1950s gave him a confidence and finish that no academy teachers. Together with knowledge gained from studies of the saxophone family and flute, plus extensive big band training (including a sting with Charlie Barnet!), Bud was perfectly equipped to cope with the demands of high pressure studio music-making over many years.

Following Bud's splendid quartet set, 'The Doctor Is In' (Candid CCD 79520), produce Alan Bates felt it was time Shank made a session with a hip New York rhythm section. Where better to do this than at the New Birdland where so many of Candid's live dates have been held. Bud flew in from the Coast for a few days and immediately struck up a formidable rapport with the trio of Kenny Barron (piano), Lonnie Plaxico (bass) and Victor Lewis (drums). They found common ground to a programme of revered standards with the addition of a clever original by Bud and a melodic tune from pianist George Cables.

Bud plays with the unclouded vision and optimism of a musician in early career, but the skill and control tell you of the lifetime of application and discipline which make it all possible. Viva Bud -a musician for all seasons!