Volume 3 by Gerry Mulligan Quartet Plus Lee Konitz is a remarkable album that showcases the immense talent of the musicians involved. The quartet, consisting of Gerry Mulligan on baritone saxophone, Chet Baker on trumpet, Carson Smith on bass, and Larry Bunker on drums, is joined by Lee Konitz on alto saxophone to create a beautiful blend of sound.
The album features eight tracks that are a mix of original compositions and jazz standards. Each track is a testament to the musicians' virtuosity and their ability to create music that is both complex and accessible. The interplay between the different instruments is seamless, with each musician taking turns to shine.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "My Funny Valentine," which features Chet Baker's haunting trumpet and Gerry Mulligan's soulful baritone saxophone. The two musicians play off each other beautifully, creating a melancholic and emotional rendition of the classic jazz standard.
Another highlight of the album is "I'll Remember April," which starts with a beautiful bass solo by Carson Smith before the rest of the band joins in. The track features some stunning improvisations by Lee Konitz and Gerry Mulligan, who both showcase their mastery of their respective instruments.