In memory of the saxophonist, who died May 1, 2020. This is an abbreviated half-hour video – there is a one hour version, but unfortunately, it’s not online now. Nevertheless, it gives a great sense of the exuberance of this band, featuring Bruce Forman (g), Bobby Enriquez (p), Marshall Hawkins (b), and Scott Morris (d). Theirs is really a JATP kind of approach to bebop – no holds barred and full steam ahead. However, Enriquez, in particular, makes it distinctive.
Cole had ties to Washington, D.C., with regular appearances at Blues Alley, One Step Down, and Harold’s Rogue & Jar (which he memorialized in his tune “Harold’s House of Jazz”). In addition to touring with Marshall Hawkins, he recorded a 1976 album for Adelphi (Starburst) with pianist Reuben Brown’s trio.