September 2000

Warren Vache Quintet
Warren Plays Warren
Nagel-Heyer

By Harvey Siders

Warren's best moments fairly leap out of Warren Plays Warren. Not that Vache is beside himself (these standards by Harry Warren are filled with the kinds of changes instrumentalists relish). Sparks fly because trumpeter Randy Sandke is blowing alongside of him. Their phrasing is instinctive (check out "Jeepers Creepers" and "Nagasaki") and the chemistry is pluperfect: at times it sounds like a front line of Ruby Braff and Clark Terry goosing each other at an old-fashioned cutting session. Providing equally competitive solos is pianist Kenny Drew Jr. It's an inspired and inspiring session, with Sandke, who wrote all the arrangements, pushing Vache to outdo himself. Drummer Jimmy Cobb and bassist Murray Wall lay down a smoothly swinging pulse.