Chet Baker Big Band is an album recorded in December 1956 in Los Angeles for Pacific Jazz, produced by Richard Bock. It is one of the few recordings of Baker leading a big band, with arrangements by Johnny Mandel, Bill Holman, and others.
The album arose from Baker's need to expand his sound, although the sessions were difficult due to his personal instability. The big band includes musicians such as saxophonist Phil Urso and trumpeter Conte Candoli, with arrangements blending cool jazz with orchestral swing.
Despite mixed reviews upon release, the album has been revalued over time as a unique document of West Coast jazz. Baker's direction, though not always firm, brings a lyrical sensibility to the brass sections.
This album was recorded in December 1956 in Los Angeles for Pacific Jazz, produced by Richard Bock. It is one of the few recordings of Baker leading a big band, with arrangements by Johnny Mandel, Bill Holman, and others.
The album arose from Baker's need to expand his sound, although the sessions were difficult due to his personal instability. The big band includes musicians such as saxophonist Phil Urso and trumpeter Conte Candoli, with arrangements blending cool jazz with orchestral swing.
Despite mixed reviews upon release, the album has been revalued over time as a unique document of West Coast jazz. Baker's direction, though not always firm, brings a lyrical sensibility to the brass sections.