Ben Webster : Ballads

The All Music Guide rating for this album on a 1-9 scale (9=best) is: 8

The All Music Guide rating for this album among this artist's works on a 1-9 scale (9=best) is: 8

  Abraham Borodin - Cello
  Al Young - Flute, Sax (Baritone)
  Ben Webster - Sax (Tenor), Main Performer
  Burt Fisch - Viola
  Chet Amsterdam - Bass
  Danny Bank - Flute, Sax (Alto), Sax (Baritone)
  Gene Orloff - Violin
  George Ricci - Cello
  Hank Jones - Piano
  Harold Coletta - Violin
  Harry Lookofsky - Violin
  Jack Zayde - Violin
  Leo Kruczek - Violin
  Lucien Smith - Cello
  Martin Donegan - Violin
  Osie Johnson - Drums
  Paul Winter - Violin
  Tosha Samaroff - Violin

In the 1950s, tenor-saxophonist Ben Webster was at the peak of his powers. His musical personality really featured two separate emotions: harsh and tough on the faster pieces and surprisingly warm and tender on the ballads. Webster uses the latter voice throughout this two-LP set. On all but four of 20 selections, Ben is backed by a string section arranged by Ralph Burns (except for 'Chelsea Bridge' which was arranged by Billy Strayhorn ) and, although clarinetists Tony Scott and Jimmy Hamilton and pianists Teddy Wilson and Hank Jones are heard from, the focus is otherwise entirely on the great tenor. The final four numbers, which matches Webster with Wilson in a stringless quartet, also stick to ballads. Music that is both beautiful and creative. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide

This release presents some of the most impressive Ben Webster sessions from the fifties, showcasing his romantic side and his full and warm sound on beautiful ballads. Originally compiled on a classic 2LP set titled BALLADS, this music presents Webster accompanied here by old friends like Billy Strayhorn, Teddy Wilson and Jimmy Hamilton. Also featuring Tony Scott, Hank Jones, George Duvivier and Louie Bellson as well as orchestras arranged by Strayhorn and Ralph Burns. Includes 16-page booklet