Chet Baker: Live in London (UBU0003)

A stunning unreleased Chet Baker session from 1983 recorded with a great UK trio. Remastered and released with permisison from the Chet Baker Estate.

For six evenings, from 28th March to 2nd April 1983, the John Horler Trio rhythm section supported the legendary trumpet player Chet Baker at The Canteen in London. For those who were fortunate enough to be there, these were magical shows. The rhythm section was tight and Chet was at the top of his game. The best of the six hours of music is presented here on 'Live in London' and has been restored and remastered to the highest quality.

Jim Richardson, Chet's bassist, asked him if he could record the shows for his personal enjoyment. Chet was only too happy to agree, and Jim managed to capture most of the performances on a SONY TCS 300 audiocassette recorder.

Over the years, Jim selectively shared this astonishing music, and those who heard it encouraged him to find a way to release it to the public. However, a combination of factors precluded this from happening for 33 years, until Martin Hummel met Jim late one evening at Ronnie Scott's. Jim's story about the music and his unwavering desire to share this with the world caught Hummel's attention. Together, they persevered and ultimately The Chet Baker Estate granted permission to release the material on the Ubuntu Music label.

These are exceptional performances of Baker at his best, with music that touches the head, the heart and the soul.

Personnel: Chet Baker (trumpet & vocals), John Horler (piano), Jim Richardson (bass), Tony Mann (drums)

"An amazing album." - Chris Philips, Jazz FM