I second the votes for Paul Desmond, Kenny Barron and Sonny Clark. Also on sax: Dave Liebman. On trumpet, I vote for Tom Harrell - an absolute master at blowing in-the-pocket, economical solos. Piano - Michel Petrucciani. Not necessarily known as a Jazz artist, but who essentially played a jazz kit and a jazz style and I feel doesn't get his rightful due is Charlie Watts on drums.
Underrated jazz greats
I listen to all sorts of music, but mostly jazz. There are many musicians who, for whatever reason, don't attract the attention that their great gifts possibly deserve. I would be interested to know who others think are hidden gems in the jazz world, who have contributed substantially to the genre.
I will begin with two musicians who I believe are outstanding, and deserving of the highest recognition.
1) Lew Tabackin - an outstanding tenor player, and a phenomenal jazz flutist in my view.
2) Sir Roland Hanna - tremendous command of the keyboard, and he thought around the perimeter of pieces to make them both musically and intellectually satisfying.
Very interested in others' thoughts.
I will begin with two musicians who I believe are outstanding, and deserving of the highest recognition.
1) Lew Tabackin - an outstanding tenor player, and a phenomenal jazz flutist in my view.
2) Sir Roland Hanna - tremendous command of the keyboard, and he thought around the perimeter of pieces to make them both musically and intellectually satisfying.
Very interested in others' thoughts.