Grammy award-winning Count Basie Orchestra lead trombonist Dr. Isrea Butler pays tribute to trombone legends J.J. Johnson and Bennie Green on his swinging debut recording, Congo Lament, released via Vegas Records...

Congo Lament sees trombonist Isrea Butler delivering his debut LP. Also lending their talents to the album are Doug Lawrence (tenor sax), Dave Loeb (piano), Steve Flora (bass) and Bob Chmel (drums).

This 7-track (40 min, 01 sec) release primarily features compositions by Green from his 1959 LP, Bennie Green Swings the Blues, and saxophonist Ike Quebec’s album, Easy Living, which also features the trombonist, and was recorded in 1962.

Not only is this a loving tribute to well respected jazz artists, but it also acts as an introduction to the important output they gave to the genre. Whether you're a fan of Green and Quebec, or new to their work, Congo Lament offers a glimpse into a bygone era of jazz that is well worth spending a little time with.

Track listing:

01. Congo Lament by Bennie Green (5:50)
02. I.Q. Shuffle by Ike Quebec (5:27)
03. Easy Living by Leo Robin & Ralph Rainger (6:47)
04. B.G.’s Groove Two by Bennie Green (5:43)
05. Pennies from Heaven by Arthur Johnston and Johnny Burke (4:59)
06. Que’s Pills by Stanley Turrentine (5:00)
07. See See Rider by Ma Rainey (7:06)

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Nick Smithson