Wailing With Lou is an appropriate title for this enjoyable set of straight-ahead bop. Whether he's riding the propulsive rhythms of 'Caravan' or settling down into a ballad, Donaldson takes the center stage with his surprisingly full alto tone. He still displays a clear Charlie Parker influence, but he is beginning to break free and develop his own style. In particular, he relies on bluesy runs more than Bird, which give his music a soulful edge. But what makes Wailing With Lou so enjoyable is the hot interplay between Donaldson, trumpeter Donald Byrd, pianist Herman Foster, bassist Peck Morrison and drummer Art Taylor. All five musicians give enthusiastic, infectious performances. There's nothing out of the ordinary here -- just hard-driving bop and sensitive ballads, which are sure to please fans of the style.
- Lou Donaldson, alto saxophone
- Donald Byrd, trumpet
- Herman Foster, piano
- Peck Morrison, bass
- Art Taylor, drums
Recorded January 27, 1957 Van Gelder Studio, Hackensack
Produced by Alfred Lion
Engineered by Rudy Van Gelder
Digitally remastered
01. L.D. Blues (5:20)
02. Caravan (5:57)
03. Old Folks (6:20)
04. That Good Old Feeling (6:50)
05. Move It (5:53)
06. There Is No Greater Love (6:53)
