My Romance – 1985
Chet Baker and Red Mitchell
A priceless clip featuring two masters
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While trumpeter Chet Baker and bassist Red Mitchell first recorded together in 1952, they crossed paths in the recording studio much less than one might think; just nine songs during 1952-55, a private recoding in 1983, and a previously unissued version of “My Romance” for Baker’s Candy album in 1985.
The latter, which was filmed, is actually taken from a relaxed rehearsal with Mitchell sounding quite effective on his second instrument, the piano.
Red Mitchell and Chet Baker both sit on a piano bench while Mitchell plays a slow chorus on “My Romance”; Baker looks closely and with admiration at Mitchell’s chord voicings.
During the second and final chorus, Baker creates a melodic trumpet solo.
While one regrets that there is not more, this intimate and intriguing duet is memorable.
-Scott Yanow
