Ruby Braff – Ruby Braff Featuring Dave McKenna

A superb small-group jazz session pairing trumpeter Ruby Braff with pianist Dave McKenna, bassist Al Lucas and drummer Buzzy Drootin. Recorded in July 1956, the quartet brings an intimate, swinging approach to standards including “Dancing in the Dark,” “Blue Prelude,” “Why Was I Born?,” “Louisiana,” “It’s Wonderful,” and “Almost Like Being in Love.” Braff’s warm cornet sound and McKenna’s distinctive piano playing make this an excellent example of sophisticated 1950s mainstream jazz.