Pure Madness (1978)

"Re-issue of Alto Maddness 1978 and Hollywood Madness 1980. Some of Richie Cole's finest records were made for the Muse label during 1976-1981 when he did a great deal to help revive bebop. Cole has long had the ability to turn almost anything into jazz and on this set he manages to swing both the theme from The Price Is Right and the main melody from Last Tango in Paris. Singer Eddie Jefferson is featured on: "The Common Touch" and "Moody's Mood '78." And Hollywood Madness, Four songs utilize the Manhattan Transfer; the great vocalese singer Eddie Jefferson makes his final record appearance; there are some good solos by pianist Dick Hindman and guitarist Bruce Forman; and Tom Waits makes an eccentric guest appearance. But it is altoist Cole who stars throughout on an unlikely program highlighted by boppish versions of such tunes as "Hooray for Hollywood," "Hi-Fly," "Relaxin' at Camarillo," "I Love Lucy," and his original "Tokyo Rose Sings the Hollywood Blues." A gem." (Allmusic)