Curtis Fuller belonged in the select circle with J.J. Johnson, Kai Winding, and a few others who make the trombone sound fluid and inviting rather than awkward. His ability to make wide-octave leaps and play whiplash phrases in a relaxed, casual manner was a testament to his skill. Fuller's solos and phrases were often ambitious and creative, and he worked in several fine bands and participated in numerous great sessions.
Fuller studied music in high school, then began developing his skills in an Army band, where he played with Cannonball Adderley. He worked in Detroit with ...