The Count Basie Quartet

Most of us are used to hearing the Count Basie big band, and when you’re a musician in an orchestra of that size, it’s easy to get lost in the power of the other 15 or so instruments … even if it’s your orchestra!  As a result, Basie himself became, arguably, one of the most underrated piano players in jazz.  In fact, few of his fans even realize that he has recorded with a trio, quartet, and even a septet. Twenty Minutes After Three (above), Untitled Blues (below left), and Squeeze Me (below right) are a testimonial to The Count’s actual keyboard prowess. His sidemen are drummer Sonny Payne, bassist Norman Keenan, and Freddie Green on guitar, retaining the trademark Basie sound even in a small combo. The recording was done in 1968 as part of the Jazz Casual series on National Educational Television (NET now PBS).