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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
frogman
4,637 posts
 
Sitting here waiting to see if I will have to serve on a jury. What better use of this time than to catch up on some of the submissions?

****It's that time of year once again. There is something just not right with this performance. Not sure what.****

Well, you're right something is definitely wrong with this "Pictures". Many details that could be discussed; but, in short, a lackluster third-rate performance of this staple of the orchestral rep. Interesting that all that is wrong with this performance is represented in and can be heard in the opening trumpet solo. This iconic melody should be played with confidence and a declamatory feeling; while not necessarily loudly, but with clear forward movement. This young player plays way too politely and not nearly inside the beat enough (no groove). The first three notes of the melody are quarter notes, the fourth and fifth are eight notes and twice as fast. Notice how he rushes through the eight notes. Then, at :31 he is late on the downbeat. Overall, not an example of good orchestral playing; to say the least. Check out Gergiev and the Kirov.
frogman
4,637 posts
 
(Still waiting). Cannonball Adderly Sextet Live In Switzerland:

Unbelievable! Without a doubt one of the best things a have heard in a while. The group was so "in the zone" that night that's its almost scary. Listened to "Jessica's Birthday" three times in a row. The groove is amazing and all the horn players were on that night. Biggest surprise for me was Yusef Lateef who hasn't always killed me; swinging his ass off, and what a great tenor sound! This one goes in the archives. Thanks for the clip!
frogman
4,637 posts
 
Well, I was looking forward to doing my civic duty; but, they don't want me. Maybe it was the suit and tie.

Have some thoughts about McCoy for later.
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
Pictures: Lackluster is the word I would have used had this been an European or American Orchestra. In this case I think they played up to their ability. They are just not ready for prime time. I would have thought not ready for The BBC Proms, but I think their mission is to encourage and give exposure to classical groups like this. Even their body language was strange.

I have several Pictures. The Great Gate of Kiev was one of the first Classical pieces I grew to love.

I have Cleveland/Szell, Chicago/Solti and Chicago/Reiner. Because of these, I knew the Proms thingy was wrong.

I also Have Pictures played on piano by Evgeny Kissin. Didn't think I would like it, but I love it.

Cheers
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
Cannonball: The CD is "Cannonball Adderley Sextet, Lugano 1963".

Cheers
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