By now it has become commonplace for traveling American musicians to knock off a casual album or two for a local European label. Back in 1959, when Chet Baker left the United States for what was to be an extended overseas stay, such recording was decidedly a rarity. On this occasion, which was an authorized celebration of his arrival in Italy, the repertoire (featuring material by Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Gerry Mulligan, Sonny Rollins, and Tadd Dameron) gives Chet a solid basis to work from; the local supporting players, unknowns but all fully competent, do the same. The result is a very pleasant surprise: in many respects more satisfying than the work the then-troubled Baker had been doing just before leaving home.

Lady Bird, Cheryl Blues, Tune Up, Line for Lyons, Pent Up House, Look for the Silver Lining, Indian Summer, My Old Flame

with Renato Sellani, Franco Serri, Gene Victory, Clauco Masetti, Gianno Basso