Duke Jordan

• Genre: Bebop

About

The forgotten man of the Bebop movement, pianist Duke Jordan appeared on some of Charlie Parker’s most celebrated recordings in the late ‘40s before slowly (and mysteriously) falling into obscurity. Nevertheless, he has built up an impressive collection of solo recordings over his lengthy career. His unorthodox rhythmic figures, as well as his sprightly, almost staccato attack, separate him from the hordes of Bud Powell imitators. In 1955, he released a pair of records that remain among his best work, featuring such popular standards as “A Night in Tunisia,” “Summertime,” and “Yesterdays.” Jordan resurfaced in 1973, from which point he recorded no less than nineteen albums for the Danish record label Steeplechase (many of them live recordings) up through 1985. Despite his erratic career, Jordan remains a pioneer of Bop.

- Noah Enelow