The Flute Mastery Of Frank Wess

This is the only all-flute record issued by Frank Wess, one of the pioneers of the jazz flute. Wess began his musical life as a saxophonist and began doubling on flute when he studied the instrument under the G.I. Bill. He remained one of the best tenor saxophonists, logging eleven years with Count Basie, but doubled on flute all the while. This session was produced by Progressive Records impresario Gus Statiras in 1981. He assembled an all-star quintet featuring guitarist Chuck Wayne, a star on many early bebop sessions who later worked with George Shearing and Tony Bennett; pianist Tommy Flanagan, fresh from an extended career backing Ella Fitzgerald; bassist George Mraz, who worked regularly with Wess in the New York Jazz Quartet; and drummer Ben Riley, best known for his three years with Thelonious Monk.