In previous posts, I've praised the Glen Campbell, Isaac Hayes, and Herbie Mann versions of "By The Time I Get To Phoenix." An LP from my collection yesterday jogged my memory of another solid cover of it.
Campbell and Hayes proved how successfully two disparate vocalists could convey the tune. Mann proved it translated well to the flute. Leo Wright, however, also showed how well an alto sax carries the melody, making it sound fresh and breezy. Surprisingly, I've never heard his version on any radio station. It fits equally well into traditional jazz and smooth jazz formats, though, so maybe, one day...
