James Moody was a modernist with a difference in the 1950s. Although thoroughly immersed in the bebop idiom, he led a septet that also reflected the jump-band tradition of Louis Jordan and Earl Bostic. It was both highly popular and quietly influential, especially on the Ray Charles band of the time. In this 1955 set, Moody plays ballads and blues, two originals by the then-unknown Benny Golson, an extended bonus jam, and “Disappointed” (with Eddie Jefferson’s lyrics to Charlie Parker’s immortal “Lady Be Good” solo.)

with Dave Burns, William Shepherd, Numa "Pee Wee" Moore, Jimmy Boyd, John Lathan, Clarence Johnson, Eddie Jefferson