Little Big Horn
by Scott YanowThis lesser-known set by Nat Adderley (reissued on CD in the Original Jazz Classics in 1999) teams the likable cornetist with either Jim Hall or Kenny Burrell on guitar and the Junior Mance Trio (which consists of pianist Mance, bassist Bob Cranshaw and drummer Mickey Roker). Nat wrote all eight selections and, even though none would catch on (a la "Work Song"), several of the numbers are quite memorable and are deserving of revival. "Loneliness" sounds properly desolate, "Roses for Your Pillow" is a superior ballad and most of the other songs are filled with joy, including "El Chico," "Half-Time" and "Broadway Lady." A fine obscurity recorded at a time when Nat was one of the stars of his brother Cannonball Adderley's Sextet.