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
"My favorite comment of hers was when she was interviewed about Amy Winehouse recording with the Daptone house band. She said something like "Some people study the blues and then try to sing it. While I open my mouth the blues just pours out". "


I copied this from another thread talking about the recent  death of Blues singer Sharon Jones.   Substitute the word 'Blues' with 'Jazz'.

By Jove, I think she nailed it.  Makes a good point for this thread.

Cheers
Ghosthouse, thanks for those Jamal clips.  Fantastic!  Had not heard those and they are interesting to me in that they show Jamal playing in a somewhat different style from the chord-heavy approach of "Poinciana" days; more use of melodic lines in the right hand.  Great player.  I particularly enjoyed "Trio-Patterns" and beautiful rendition of "Stolen Moments" with a unexpected lilt and slightly faster tempo compared to the classic original:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?list=PLcJnGPHSdzd9HgCBYpZ7TAHQZg4v2Z9rX&v=I777BcgQL9o

I think "chamber-jazz" is a good description of Oregon's style.  Very strong improvisational element as you point out.  Combine this with very interesting and sometimes complex structures in their compositions and virtuosic playing and it pushes the broader "jazz" button for me.  Whatever it is, it's really good music.  Towner is a monster musician and a driving force in the group.  

****(Sharon Jones) makes a good point for this thread**** -Rok

What I think makes a good point for this thread is that while being so intent on pointing out what is not jazz (in your opinion only) you overlook great stuff like the Jamal clips.  I think we are probably due for the twentieth posting of Ravel's "Bolero"; or perhaps more Billy Ocean or Luther Vandross.  Now, THOSE will really get my feet and fingers tapping on two and four ☺️.  You can join the party anytime. Cheers.

Ahmad Jamal is heavily represented on my play list. If I remember correctly, Rok dropped out when I put the "Spotlight" on Ahmad Jamal; but, the old memory ain't what she used to be.

Presently, I'm enjoying everyone else's links so much, that I don't want to spoil the party by submitting any.


I am enjoying the music.
Frogman - Glad you liked the Ahmad Jamal clips and doubly so as they are new to you.  Both are from his album, The Awakening (as you no doubt saw).  A recording well worth owning.  

Rok - thanks for that glimpse of Sharon Jones.  I saw a few comments about her passing but know nothing at all about her.  Will have to check her out.  

My apology to everyone, especially Rok for being unaware of "Sharon Jones". For most of my life I have been "exclusively" into jazz.


          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlPE1rEdAdI


It's for sure I heard music, and was entertained by musicians like "Sharon Jones" when I went out on the weekend, which was every weekend. (in my twenties) There were more clubs than I could count, that had clubs with live music like this on the weekend in St. Louis.


          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ouI5KcyHfE



Sharon Jones family, and fans have my condolences.