Each month Peter Batten recommends a recording that jazz fans may wish to add to their personal library.

    This month it is time to recommend some British jazz. My choice is Stan Tracey. In the 1980s I enjoyed his duo performances with bassist Roy Babbington. Then in his last 20 years he made club and concert appearances which combined trio performances with formidable solo improvisations. I found these even better than the earlier duo. This CD captures some of Stan’s very best work. For the trios he is supported by son Clark on drums and the excellent Andy Cleyndert on bass. They combine beautifully, but it is the solo titles which are remarkable. Stan explores great standards like “What’s New” and “Angel Eyes” and Monk’s beautiful tune “Ask Me Now”. The final track is an astonishing reworking of “Body and Soul”. If anyone asks you “how good was Stan Tracey”, just play them this CD.

[Stan Tracey  Solo:Trio  is on Cadillac CD SGCCD06.]

Peter Batten regularly contributes to the Sussex Jazz Appreciation Society, who meet on the second Thursday of every month at The Shoreham Centre.

Peter can be contacted on 01273  735252.