Art Pepper - Tokyo Encore (1991)

While Art Pepper's career was nearing an end when this quartet date was recorded in Tokyo, he substituted timing, knowledge, and experience for flash and power on this LP's six tunes. His alto and occasional clarinet work had color, conviction, and edge, which compensated for the loss of tone and speed from his peak days. Pianist George Cables was the group's top soloist, sometimes playing with remarkable fire and other times underscoring a direction began by Pepper or providing soothing melodies or enticing answering themes. Even near the end, Pepper's solos maintained an intensity that was commendable, and this date will delight both his fans and general jazz audiences. -- Ron Wynn