Tenor Saxophonist Joe Alexander: "Blue Jubilee"

We are continuing this month of March with one-off and rare recordings and tonight's Jazz feature is just that. Not too much is known about the leader, tenor saxophonist Joe Alexander except he was originally from Birmingham, Alabama but spent most of his playing career in Cleveland, Ohio where he found steady work. His only other recorded appearance is on Tadd Dameron's album "Fontainebleau" from 1956.. This album called "Blue Jubilee" is Joe's only recording under his name. Joe recorded this in June of 1960 while he was on a short tour of duty with Ray Charles' band. Joe and equally obscure trumpet player John Hunt teamed up. John was a long time player with Ray Charles. Joe and John are backed by an all-star rhythm section made up of Bobby Timmons on piano, Sam Jones on bass and Albert "Tootie" Heath on drums. Blue Jubilee turns out to be a fine solid Jazz album that presents two rather obscure players in the best light. Sadly this album never was issued domestically on CD but can be found on the European Fresh Sounds label. Enjoy a rare treat on tonight's Jazz Feature.