[.ca] Plays Johnny Mandel

From Amazon.com:
That Zoot Sims's penultimate recording exhibits such casual flair and soulfulness is testament to the unfailing creativity the tenor saxophonist brought to his work. Indeed, the best of Sims's later works rank with those that came out in what presumably was his physical peak as a player--the 1950s. Here, the 59-year-old tenor player tackles a half-dozen Johnny Mandel compositions, interspersing languid ballads ("Emily" and "Zoot," the latter written with Sims in mind and a perfect fit for his rich, expressive playing) with jauntier exercises (the title track, "Cinnamon and Cloves"). With pianist Mike Wofford, bassist Chuck Berghofer, drummer Nick Ceroli, and percussionist Victor Feldman offering able support, the old pro shows that taste and restraint go a long way toward making age an afterthought. --Steven Stolder

Relaxed session with Zoot at his best.:
Zoot just got better with age. 'Quietly There', which is devoted to Johnny Mandel themes, was one of his final sessions. The record, weighted towards slower tempos, allows Zoot to demonstrate his ballad mastery and his peerless tone. 'A Time For Love', featuring a long, melodic solo, must be one of the best examples of tenor playing ever: from low moans to piercing cries in the upper register, Zoot can do it all. A must-have for fans of great tenor work.

• Cinnamon and Cloves
• Time for Love
• Zoot
• Quietly There
• Emily
• Low Life