'The Modernity of Bob Brookmeyer' (1955)

Bob Brookmeyer had three things going for him. First, he played valve trombone, so his attack was trumpet-like rather than the slurring of a slide. This allowed him to stand out. Second, he could swing like mad. And third, his improvisation was fluid, lyrical and engaging. [Photo above of Bob Brookmeyer]

All of these attributes helped him gain friendshi…