Chet Baker - Gérard Gustin Trio and the Chet Baker Quartet (Remastered) (2024) [Hi-Res]

Gérard Gustin, born in Nice in 1930, initially trained in violin but soon found his true passion in the piano, particularly in the realm of jazz. His musical journey was shaped by encounters with notable musicians along the way. By 1955, Gustin’s talent caught the attention of Parisian audiences, and his trio performances solidified his reputation as one of the finest French pianists of his generation.

During this pivotal period, Gustin crossed paths with Chet Baker, leading to a memorable collaboration on the trumpeter’s second album for the Barclay label. This partnership showcased Gustin’s exceptional piano skills, revealing a distinctive musical language influenced by jazz luminaries like Horace Silver and George Wallington, yet marked by his own unique flair and creativity.

n January 1956, Barclay took a significant step in recognizing Gustin’s talent by recording him for a debut 10-inch album. Leading a trio with guitarist Sacha Distel and bassist Gilbert Gassin, Gustin’s compositions and performances highlighted his innate abilities as both a pianist and a composer.

As Gustin shifted towards popular music and embraced theworld of show business, his jazz legacy began to fade into the background. Despite his undeniable talent, he didn’t attain the same level of recognition in jazz circles as some of his peers. Nevertheless, Gérard Gustin stayed committed to his musical craft until his passing in 1994, leaving behind a rich and varied musical legacy that resonated across multiple generations.

—Jordi Pujol

Sources:
Tracks #1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 & 15, from the 10-inch album
"Trio Gérard Gustin" (Barclay 84.041)
Tracks #2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16, from the 12-inch album
"Chet Baker Quartet" (Barclay 84.017)

Personnel on "Trio Gérard Gustin":
Gérard Gustin, piano; Sacha Distel, guitar; Gilbert Gassin, bass.
Recorded at Pathé-Magellan Studio, Paris, January 1956

Personnel on "Chet Baker Quartet":
Chet Baker, trumpet; Gérard Gustin, piano; Jimmy Bond, bass;
Nils-Bertil “Bert” Dahlander, drums.
Recorded at Pathé-Magellan Studio, Paris, October 24, 1955