Idle Moments cover

Idle Moments

Released

Recorded in 1963 and released in 1965, Idle Moments features a larger-than-usual band for Green, who often played with just organ and drums. Joined by tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, pianist Duke Pearson, bassist Bob Cranshaw and drummer Al Harewood, the guitarist delivers some of his most introspective soloing, maintaining his usual gritty, bluesy energy but turning the flame down just a bit as the piano, vibes, and bass create a cloud of chords around him. The opening title track is the exception; nearly 15 minutes long, it’s an after-midnight mood piece that seems to float in place, solos emerging unobtrusively from the gentle, endlessly cycling melody.

Phil Freeman

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