Live at the Berlin Philharmonic, 1977

It is certainly good news for jazz listeners that Origin Records has released ten of Hal Galper's past recordings as a leader, including this live concert from 1977 recorded in Berlin's symphony hall and released as (3) in 2021 as a two CD set. This concert, occurring in Galper's life chronology between extended stays with Cannonball Adderley (1973-1975) and with Phil Woods (1980-1990), displays a heightened dynamic and McCoy Tyner-influenced quality, both in his compositions and his playing. The forceful horn front line of Randy and Mike Brecker is well suited to this style, providing high energy and virtuosity, and along with Galper and bassist Wayne Dockery and drummer Bob Moses, enough ideas and staying power to produce these selections which average 14 minutes in length. Galper's signature innovative and playful writing and playing takes a more conventional direction in his infectious jazz waltz "Triple Play," and in his quirky/fun vehicle with gospel overtones, "Hey Fool." Added to this recording is the duo of Galper and Mike Brecker on the Brodzsky-Cahn ballad "I'll Never Stop Loving You," an outstanding performance from a Mike Brecker Quartet recording done two months later on the same stage.