Where stands the music of Chet Baker with you?



I could say much from my own thoughts, but if you give a damn about this subject, I would like to hear of your own thoughts and listening history on the music of Chet Baker.

Please no cliche', "he is no Miles Davis" non-self thought.

And no need to apoligize for being black or white...another Jazz cliche'.
whatjd
Let's remember Chet as THE primary trumpet player of the West Coast/Cool jazz movement. I wouldn't bother comparing him to east coast/ hard bop guys. A very talented player - not perfect, by why knock him? I wish I could walk into a club and see a player half as talented as him on any given night - most of us cannot.
Love pretty much all his music, singing and playing. I even took singing lessons back in the days, learned the jazz classics and tried to sound like him. Bit less into him now that I have shacken off the existentialist blues of my 20s, have two kids, own a minivan, house in the suburbs and mortage, but still fond memories. Some favorites are: almost blue, my funny valentine, my foolish heart, sad walk, you don't know what love is. All priceless stuff.
There’s a certain uniqueness to Chet’s talent that makes comparisons difficult if not moot. Trumpets tend to be kind of “in your face” type instruments, but not when Chet plays. He draws you in. To me, if Chet Baker was a Scotch, he’d be Laphroaig. So it’s easy for me to understand that he’s not for everyone. But he is most definitely a very talented trumpet player of the first order.
Phaelon,
I can(and have) listen to Chet`s trumpet for long listening sessions and enjoy every momment,such tone and expression.
Regards,