AllMovie

Take a compelling trip back through the history of American jazz with this collection of performance clips originally filmed in the 1960s, and featuring Gerry Mulligan, Art Pepper, and Art Farmer. In the first performance, baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan shows viewers precisely how he came to be renowned as a key player in the development of cool jazz while performing alongside such greats as Chet Baker and Miles Davis. Though alto saxophonist Art Pepper was first compelled to pay his dues performing under Benny Carter and Dexter Gordon, this memorable performance captured before his slide into drug addiction shows just why he would become best-known for his remarkable performances with the Stan Kenton Orchestra. Last but certainly not least, revered flugelhorn and trumpet master Art Farmer offers viewers a captivating performance highlighted by his trademark beautiful tone and truly affecting lyricism.