Click here to visit our new site --> CafeDVD 2.0 20th Century Jazz Masters: Dave Brubeck, Thad Jones-Mel Lewis, M.J.Q. (1961) Rating: Starring: Director: Category: Music Studio: Idem Home Video Subtitles: Length: 90 mins     This extraordinary DVD showcases the talents of three of the most important bands of the twentieth century. Immortalized on these live American TV programs from the 1960's, their music will transport you back to the golden age of jazz. One of the most acclaimed ensembles of all time, the Modern Jazz Quartet was formed under the musical vision of pianist John Lewis in 1952. Vibraphonist Milt Jackson, bassist Percy Heath and drummer Connie Kay, rounded out this legendary band. While each member of the quartet was one of the top musicians of their instrument, the band's composite was even greater than the sum of its parts. This phenomenal 1962 footage features the Modern Jazz Quartet in rare form. Alto saxophonist Paul Desmond and pianist Dave Brubeck formed the core of the most commercially successful group in jazz history, the Dave Brubeck Quartet. They played together for seventeen years, releasing numerous albums. Although Brubeck's thick harmonic structures sharply contrasted with Desmond's humorous and lackadaisical melodies, their styles strangely complemented each other. This exceptional 1961 broadcast showcases the telepathic interplay between these two giants of jazz. One of the most important big bands of the 1960's, his orchestra boasted one of the most impressive line-ups in big band history. Led by the gifted trumpeter and cornetist Thad Jones (1923-1986) and drum guru Mel Lewis (1929-1990), this band could swing hard. This wonderful 1968 footage features the Jones-Lewis band at their best. From the legendary quartets of MJQ and Dave Brubeck to the explosive Jones-Lewis big band, this DVD is a must have for any jazz fan.