Images

Jean "Toots" Thieleman's virtually introduced the chromatic harmonica as a jazz instrument and his performances can be heard on some of the best selling pop records of the last century. "Images" is very much the first and best true jazz album that Thieleman's made. The key musician chosen by Toots to participate was pianist Joanne Brackeen, then bassist Cecil McBee and drummer Fredie Waits. The material they selected is wide ranging - two beautiful ballads, two originals by Brackeen and some straight ahead swingers. The harmonica is never a musical obstacle to Toots, and it is a joy to listen to him interpret any mood.