What Is This Thing Called Love – 1987
Warne Marsh
A rare filmed performance from just two months before the tenor’s passing
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Tenor-saxophonist Warne Marsh (1927-87) became well known for his association with pianist Lennie Tristano, his cool-toned sound, and his dedication to constant improvising, generally over well-known chord changes.
This rare film appearance from Oct. 18, 1987 features Marsh still in prime form exactly two months before his unexpected death.
From a San Francisco club date, Marsh is featured on “What Is This Thing Called Love” (although the melody is never stated) in a quartet with guitarist Larry Koonse, bassist Seward McCain, and drummer Jim Zimmerman.
Here, as in most of his performances and recordings, Marsh sounds unlike anyone else in his tone and ideas.
-Scott Yanow
Ella Fitzgerald