If I Should Lose You
CD Solid Records CDSOL-6003
The trumpet player Booker Little (1938–1961) had a short life but left a strong impression behind in his playing, as is witnessed by his recordings. In his ultimate session, the sextette is full of youthful energy, and the music is beautiful.
Though personal, Little’s trumpet playing is considered influenced by Clifford Brown and Miles Davis, and as a composer, he took impressions from Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus. He was born in Memphis and studied at the Chicago conservatory.
The others in the group are Arian Prester, trombone; George Coleman, tenor sax; Don Freedman, piano; Reggie Workman, bass; and Pete La Roca on drums.
Though there is great music by the group playing Booker Little’s own compositions on the record, I chose this, his touching lyrical solo interpretation of a standard tune by Ralph Rainger and Leo Robin.