Kenny Dorham
Trompeta Tocata (180Gm)

‘Trompeta Toccata’ was Kenny Dorham’s last recording for Blue Note, indeed his last solo album at all. It was recorded on 14th September 1964 and released in 1965. A young Joe Henderson shares the horn duties, whilst pianist Tommy Flanagan leads a rhythm section that includes bassist Richard Davis and drummer Albert Heath. The album features two long pieces including the title track, which is a modal piece well suited to the rich trumpet of Dorham and Henderson’s expansive tenor. ‘Night Watch’ swings effortlessly and Tommy Flanagan’s solo is a thing of beauty. Joe Henderson’s ‘Mamacita’ is a gem, its Bossa beat combines Brazilian zest with a funky jazzy tone. There is an air seduction to the rhythm tantamount. Henderson leads off with his signature intensity. Dorham’s solo is however majestic. Dorham’s ‘The Fox’ concludes the four-track set at rapid-fire pace. Dorham, despite his reputation for playing soft, is in full ‘blowing session’ mode and even Henderson labours to keep up. ‘Trompeta Toccata’ is a fitting epitaph for a fine and under-rated trumpet player, who sadly passed away eight years after its recording.