Such A Crazy Fox – Herbie Nichols

Though one of Herbie Nichols’ later compositions, Such A Crazy Fox is a great example of the classic swing-to-bop style he explored throughout his career. This song’s subtly quirky melodic shapes and harmonic side-slips make it particularly exciting, especially the way the opening theme builds over a pedal point. The form is 36-measure AABC, with each section eight measures long except C which adds a four-measure tag; the two A sections and C are each slightly different. The bridge starts in C minor, eventually descending to B♭ minor.

In his solo piano recording, Glenn Zaleski displays an effortless swing feel and creative melodic interpretation. He starts with a 16-measure pedal intro. In the head, he takes some liberties with the melody and changes, in particular often playing a B minor chord in the third measure of the A section rather than D♭ minor as in the lead sheet.

A second solo piano recording is available by Jake Sasfai [clip], presenting the melody and changes as written—though not without Jake’s own personal touch.