SKF NOTE: Released today, April 15, I bought The Dave Brubeck Trio – Live from Vienna 1967, and listened to the first three tracks. Brilliant playing.

Alto saxophonist Paul Desmond was absent from this live date. What a difference his absence makes. Anyone who knows the history of drummer Joe Morello joining the Dave Brubeck Quartet, knows Morello did so over Desmond’s objections.

Paul Desmond preferred drummers who played less busy.

Morello is on fire on this album. Actually, the whole trio is on fire, feeding off each other’s energy and ideas.

Add to that the wonderful sound of Morello’s drums and cymbals, his exemplary technique, his great sense of humor, and his abundance of taste – this album is pure listening joy.