| I am a huge fan. I first heard him on a Verve duo recording with Lou Levy and then an all-star date with Art Farmer but when I heard the duo record he made with the L.A. guitarist, Jim Hershman, that is when I realized this guy was one of the true greats! I also read that he was one of Jimmy Rowles favorite bassists.
He had it all.........great lines, time, solos and was very good with the bow. I know he was also considered a fine composer. too. It's always best for me to hear where a bassist is coming from when I hear how they approach standards. (I am sure others my not agree.) But for me thats how I do it and Eric was really strong playing straight-ahead. I know his talent was much broader than that which makes him that much more amazing. I wish he was still alive.
I remember reading that playing inside was something he did more at the end of his life and that he was obsessed with it. Anyone into the Ray Brown, Red Mitchell, Michael Moore melodic bass playing school would definitely be taken with Eric's playing.
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Marshall Wood
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