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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
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
O-10:

Donegan:Dorothy is not an innovator. She does not attempt to push the envelope. She is what you said, an entertainer. Which is not a bad thing. You go to hear her and party at the same time. With someone like Silver, you would have to give him your undivided attention. Another recommendation from Stereo Review.

Brazil: The reason THIS Brazil is special, is because it is the theme from a very unique movie. I can't tell you exactly what happened in the movie, because, I am not sure I know. I have only seen it three times.

I do know it seems to be a futuristic, comical, horror story. This is not your run of the mill Brazil. That's why I love it. Because of the movie. Besides, there is a lot going on in this version.

Cheers
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVTSnNLOBcI

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kVaVQHQEH4

Cheers
frogman
4,637 posts
 
I have to agree with O-10 re Valaida Snow. A wonderful talent, great entertainer; entertainer in an era when "jazz" was SUPPOSED to be unabashedly entertaining. Of her many talents, I like her singing the best; the most convincing. Her trumpet playing was very good, but I don't think Pops had anything to worry about. "World's second best trumpet player"? I don't think so; a bit of hyperbole in the interest of entertainment and showmanship (showomanship?). Great and fascinating story!

I have to disagree, however, about that performance of "Brazil"; great classic tune. I have not seen the movie "Brazil", but I have a sneaky suspicion that this version of the tune is supposed to somehow complement the movie. Taken on its own, I find this rendition cheesy (like the movie?) and the singing downright awful; sorry.

BTW, I wrote the above just before reading Rok's comments about "Brazil". Eventhough mine appear to be much more negative, I think we are actually saying the same thing.

Here is the composer himself playing his composition with a typically Brazilian vibe; joyful (Carnaval) and just a touch of melancholy.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=V8goep7fVXk
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
Today's Listen:

Very eclectic album. From a player/composer of extraordinary intellect. If you like Jazz you will find something here to like. Every track a winner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZq70OblqXk

My favorite 'interval' of all time!! I tired to listen to "Bill Evans At The Village Vanguard" after this, but I couldn't. Just tooooo much contrast. Will save Bill for later.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYgow060zOg

Cheers
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
4,494 posts
 
The Frogman:

Pops was just messin' with Snow, when he called her the second best. Her being somewhat of a novelty, i.e. Female Jazz Trumpet Player. Pops never said who the best was. He didn't have to.

Brazil: yes, this Brazil fits the movie. I read what wiki had to say about the movie. I will have to watch it again. I am not exactly sure when he started undergoing torture.

I guess his mind retreated into fantasy and this music. The movie is not about Brazil, the country nor the music. Does not take place in Brazil. Guess that says a lot about the power of the song. An antidote to horror.

Cheers
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