Herbie Mann

In 1959, flutist Herbie Mann put together a very interesting band that was in its brief existence (before Mann's interests shifted elsewhere) one of the top in Afro-Cuban jazz. Utilizing four trumpets (including Doc Cheatham), up to three percussionists and a flute-vibes-bass-drums quartet, Mann performs four standards (including "Dearly Beloved," "I'll Remember April" and "Autumn Leaves") and two originals in a style that was beyond bop and much more African- and Cuban-oriented.

Nirvana is an album by jazz flutist Herbie Mann with The Bill Evans Trio featuring Chuck Israels and Paul Motian. The great jazz pianist Bill Evans rarely recorded with flutists, but this exception marked a great collaboration. The musical synergy between Mann and Evans is amazing, as they always become one on each track. It's a relaxing album, with both some softer as upbeat songs by the four. Fans of either Herbie Mann or Bill Evans will want to acquire this enjoyable record.