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Recorded at Carnegie Hall in November 1963, this live set showcases all of the Dave Brubeck Quartet's strengths. Gene Wright, Joe Morello, Paul Desmond, and Brubeck could pretty much accomplish anything they set their minds to in a studio, and it's all on here: the crazy time signatures and key changes, the mode shifts, and most of all the effortlessness and excitement the band generated live, seemingly without even trying. The standouts are "Blue Rondo à la Turk," "St Louis Blues," and "Pennies from Heaven." These are the longest cuts, and they offer a real chance for the band to shine. Yes, "Take Five" is here, and the version is a good one, but it pales in comparison to the performances previously mentioned. ~ Thom Jurek
