Quasimodo, recorded November 4, 1947, is a Parker composition based on the chord changes of Embraceable You, performed by the Charlie Parker Sextet at approximately 135-140 BPM in E-flat with a 32-bar ABAC form. The sextet features the addition of J. J. Johnson on trombone. Parker plays a half-chorus alto saxophone solo, followed by Duke Jordan for a half-chorus on piano, Johnson for a quarter-chorus on trombone, and Miles Davis for a quarter-chorus on trumpet. The medium tempo and the sophisticated Gershwin changes provide a lyrical setting that brings out the melodic side of each soloist. Parker's composed melody for Quasimodo is among his most elegant contrafacts, transforming the Embraceable You changes into something with its own distinct identity. The distribution of shorter solos across four different instruments creates a varied and well-paced performance. Quasimodo remains a valued piece in the jazz repertoire, admired for the beauty of its melody and the richness of its underlying harmony.
