It's Time You Learnt by Geoff Cole and His Red Hot Five

03 Jan

Written by Richard Bourcier
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Trombonist Geoff Cole will be remembered for his years with the great Ken Colyer band. Cole’s own band has since become a favorite in Britain and the trombonist has his share of fans on this side of the ocean. Another Colyer alumnus, reedman Tony Pyke, is always a part of Geoff’s current bands.

In the past, Cole’s CDs for Jazz Crusade have been tributes to legends including Morton and Waller. This session is a collection of Geoff Cole’s favorite tunes plus a couple of his own compositions. Hugh Crozier appears on his first recording with Cole’s band and is an able replacement for the retired Pat Hawes.

The leader’s gutsy slide is unmistakable on every track. Geoff is a powerful and imaginative player and in combination with Tony Pyke’s versatility, a trumpet player is not missed. Crozier’s fine hands fill the tiniest gaps and the rhythm men complete a very good session.

I found a few favorites of my own among the tunes, including Until The Real Thing Comes Along, Some Sunny Day, If Dreams Come True and the exciting version of When Lights Are Low. This is an awesome little band.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Geoff Cole and His Red Hot Five
CD Title: It's Time You Learnt
Genre: Traditional / New Orleans
Year Released: 2002
Record Label: Jazz Crusade
Tracks: Sheik of Araby; Beautiful Dreamer; If Dreams Come True; It’s Time You Learnt*; Until The Real Thing Comes Along; Ice Cream; I Can Make Believe*; I’ve Got My love To Keep Me Warm; Love Walked In; Did You Mean It; Some Sweet Day; Faraway Blues; Breezin’ Along With The Breeze; When Lights Are Low; San Jacinto Stomp; Old Spinning Wheel. (* composed by Geoff Cole)
Musicians: Geoff Cole (trombone/ vocal); Tony Pyke (reeds); Hugh Crozier (piano/ vocal); Graham Wiseman (bass); Dipper Duddy (drums).
Label Website: http://www.jazzcrusade.com
Rating: Four Stars