>I don't totally disagree, but I honestly believe that Take Five marked a major change in jazz, and if for no other reason, it's one of the truly important pieces. Not to mention that Paul Desmond is one of my heroes (as long as you concentrate only on his musicianship and ignore the gambling and chemicals). The man could play!
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>True, Take Five was a major turning point. I like some West Coast (Getz Serenity CD with "On Green Dolphin Street" has become one of my favorites) and "cool jazz", but there is nothing like hard bop. I like the Miles David stuff in the early-mid 60's when he was with Hancock and Shorter...but I still need many more therapy sessions before I can accept "Bitches Brew". (haha)
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>Yes, Desmond was a legend, but like so many others, the smoking and drinking and however much LSD he tried, ultimately shortened his life. I wasn't aware of the gamling until you mentioned it. I feel the same way about Charlie Parker - the man was a mega-mega talent but destroyed his body with drugs and was extremely cruel towards women.
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>Fortunately, at least one of my jazz idols (Pat Metheny) is a straight arrow - has never used recreational drugs, has never gotten himself into any major trouble. The man is a consummate professional (and he also slammed Kenny G. in an interview, another plus!) :)

Yeah. There don't seem to be many of those around. BTW, he dissed Kenny G.? Why? Did someone ask him for his take on elevator music?