Once in a Lifetime

Within two measures, no doubt remains that Les DeMerle's Once in a Lifetime is a jazz drummer's record. But despite its burning intensity, put aside the desire to compare this drummer with Buddy Rich when a snare drum roll is played. DeMerle is his own drummer, with a groove that swings hard regardless of the song's tempo. This album has gone unknown since its initial recording in 1967. In fact, it was mistakenly believed his '69 release Spectrum was his debut album. For whatever reason, his real debut got lost in the record label shuffle before it could see the light of day. This would also have been the official debut recording of now-trumpet legend Randy Brecker, who has appeared on more albums as a leader and sideman than can be quickly counted. Vocal contributions from Genya Raven and (in one instance) Rosemary Clooney add icing to an air-tight cake. DeMerle, like many other jazz musicians of the era, manages to sneak in the occasional pop song along with jazzier efforts. But everything is played with earnestness and respect. It would've been a real shame to let this work languish in someone's vault forever.