Jazz for aficionados


Jazz for aficionados

I'm going to review records in my collection, and you'll be able to decide if they're worthy of your collection. These records are what I consider "must haves" for any jazz aficionado, and would be found in their collections. I wont review any record that's not on CD, nor will I review any record if the CD is markedly inferior. Fortunately, I only found 1 case where the CD was markedly inferior to the record.

Our first album is "Moanin" by Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers. We have Lee Morgan , trumpet; Benney Golson, tenor sax; Bobby Timmons, piano; Jymie merrit, bass; Art Blakey, drums.

The title tune "Moanin" is by Bobby Timmons, it conveys the emotion of the title like no other tune I've ever heard, even better than any words could ever convey. This music pictures a person whose down to his last nickel, and all he can do is "moan".

"Along Came Betty" is a tune by Benny Golson, it reminds me of a Betty I once knew. She was gorgeous with a jazzy personality, and she moved smooth and easy, just like this tune. Somebody find me a time machine! Maybe you knew a Betty.

While the rest of the music is just fine, those are my favorite tunes. Why don't you share your, "must have" jazz albums with us.

Enjoy the music.
orpheus10

I bought that record "Sama Layuca" about the time it came out, and proceeded to play it to death.

I have observed a regrettable fact; when your favorite sideman is the leader on a record, it doesn't come out as well as you would expect; even when he has top personnel with him.

"Benny Golson and the Philadelphians" with Lee Morgan, Ray Bryant, Percy Heath on Bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums; has to be a good record; right? But it's just OK.

If Blakey had led the same group of men, it would have been out of sight. My point is; you got leaders and followers, when they switch positions, things just don't work out as well.

Another example is Pepper Adams, the great baritone sax man, who was dynamite with Mingus or Donald Byrd; doesn't come off as well when he's the leader. Don't know why not, such is life.


Enjoy the music.
Jazz Samba 

Verve 1962

Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd

Wouldn't be surprised if Jerry and Bob weren't influenced by this recording.  Cooler than the other side of the pillow on a hot night.