In the early Sixties Les McCann was a pioneer of “soul jazz”. Critics called it commercial, but the music drew efficient melodies from blues, gospel and rhythm & blues. The young pianist McCann signed with Pacific Jazz in 1960 and toured Europe with his Trio on ‘61 and ‘62, opening for the orchestras of Ray Charles and Count Basie. The “Live in Paris” collection gives us the opportunity to listen to these great concerts again, and also hear rare recordings like this one, recorded in July ‘61 at the Chameleon club in Paris, a legendary Left Bank nightspot. The inspired McCann also growls characteristically, kindly admonishing his audience when they whistle along with the melody, and everyone has a good time. The jazz is soulful in this set, and you can almost see the club’s damp walls beneath wreaths of smoke. A rare document that transports the listener, thanks to a generous, swinging pianist. Patrick FReMEAUX
