The Dave Brubeck Quartet – Jazz Goes To College

Released in 1954, Jazz Goes to College captures The Dave Brubeck Quartet during their groundbreaking tour of American universities. This live album was Brubeck's first for Columbia Records and features performances from various college campuses, including the University of Michigan, University of Cincinnati, and Oberlin College. The quartet—Dave Brubeck on piano, Paul Desmond on alto saxophone, Bob Bates on bass, and Joe Dodge on drums—delivers a compelling set that blends cool jazz sensibilities with spontaneous improvisation, showcasing their ability to connect with a younger, collegiate audience.

Critics have praised the album for its vibrant energy and the quartet's cohesive interplay. The performances are noted for their inventive arrangements and the seamless integration of complex rhythms and harmonies. Jazz Goes to College not only solidified Brubeck's reputation as a leading figure in modern jazz but also played a pivotal role in bringing jazz to a broader, more diverse audience during the 1950s.

Reviews

"This was Brubeck-Desmond's greatest period... The music is squarely in the tradition—soulful, in the moment, unrepeatable." — All About Jazz

"Desmond is the star of the show... he plays some of the loveliest alto you'll ever hear." — The Absolute Sound

"The quartet's support of Brubeck is uniformly flawless, ultimately producing what many consider as the most memorable music in the artist's canon." — AllMusic