I was fortunate in that I heard him at the North Sea Jazz Festival in 1982 where he was part of the George Gruntz Orchestra. It was quite a concert with Charlie Mariano on alto and Sheila Jordan doing the vocals. Howard's powerful sound filled out the ensembles helping to make it one of the most tonally complex big bands outside of Ellington.
In the photo I guess he had a few bars rest! May he enjoy many more in peace.
Howard Johnson was 79 - he will be sadly missed by many.
Lance
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