The Jazz Five The Five of Us

This band has several characteristics in common with The Couriers. It has a two-saxophone front line tenor and baritone as opposed to the two tenors of Ronnie Scott and Tubby Hayes. The personnel strikes a remarkably happy balance between experienced young 'veterans' and talented, enthusiastic youngsters. Like The Couriers, The Jazz Five has a definite and very personal sound. The two saxophones achieve a remarkably wide range. The band's book contains possibly more originals than standards. Unlike many other groups today, it does not rely solely on taking down themes from American record. Four of the five are composers of considerable talent. Although each writer has a fairly individual style, somehow each score seems to suit the band's overall conception and complete aptness. Their originals have exceptionally melodic lines, yet are harmonically arresting and have a very strong rhythmic appeal. The sleeve note says "Of all the Jazz groups to appear on the British Jazz scene since the demise of The Jazz Couriers, none appears to have a broader appeal than The Jazz Five. The personnel strikes a remarkably happy balance between experienced young 'veterans' and talented, enthusiastic youngsters". A straight re-issue of the original and very rare, Tempo LP recorded in 1960.