[guido]

Although taken from us far too early, Paul created a standard for cool lyrical literate swing. From his many years with Dave Brubeck to the occasional quartet with Gerry Mulligan, the late quartets with Ed Bickert, Paul spun effortless choruses filled with witty invention and heart breaking romanticism. His tone made alto players everywhere want to sound like a dry martini.

To remember him I'm listening to his wonderful tune Wendy from the Quartet Live disc with Ed Bickert.

 

[Joe Giardullo]

As I was working earlier this week, I listened to 5 hours of Desmond sans Brubeck, and I loved every note of it.

So I listened to it all again today! And it was a joy again, especially his "I SHOULD CARE".

Happy Birthday, indeed. I'll drink to that!

 

[belliott]

I've always enjoyed this by Desmond.

 

[Tony5175]

His "Take 5" was the song that really got me into jazz. Happy Birthday Paul!

 

[stradivarius151]

I love his tone and style, ever since I've started delving into "cool" "West coast" jazz. I do love Take Five as well.

 

[Jazzaferri]

I really love his playing as well. With or without Brubek. A glass of wine thinking of him now.

 

[FawltyTenor]

Enjoy Desmond's playing quite a lot, those recordings with Jim Hall are classic. Lovely sound and conception. Very personal and unique.