Record Reviews

COUNT BASIE ~ BASIC BASIE MPS 4029759097457 (Barcode: 4029759097457) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1969 Released: 2014 This is a reissue of a little known album by American Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Count BasieFind albums by this artist, recorded with his Orchestra, which features some of the top American Jazz players at the time, including among others saxophonist Eddie DavisFind albums by this artist and guitarist Freddie GreenFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve pieces, eleven of which are standards and one is an original composition by Basie. This album is actually quite special in the extended Basie´s recorded legacy, as the producer asked him to play longer than usual piano solos, which normally included only brief passages. Therefore Basie´s piano is more prominent here than usual. Of course Basie and his Orchestra are the archetypal examples of American Swing, bringing this sub-genre to absolute perfection. It is great to have this album back in circulation both for its historical importance and the irresistible urge to dance while the music is playing. The superb arrangements by Chico O`FarrillFind albums by this artist are also a Godsend. This music is absolutely ageless! Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 27/05/2018Posted: 12/10/2016

CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend

COUNT BASIE ~ HIGH VOLTAGE MPS 4029759115601 (Barcode: 4029759115601) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1970 Released: 2016 This is a reissue of an album by American pianist / composer / bandleader Count BasieFind albums by this artist, which was his second of two albums for MPSFind albums on this label. Basie leads the incredible Count Basie OrchestraFind albums by this artist, one of the tightest and archetypical Jazz Big Bands of all times, which includes some of the best American Jazz musicians of the period, like saxophonist Eddie DavisFind albums by this artist, flautist Eric DixonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Joe NewmanFind albums by this artist, bassist George DuvivierFind albums by this artist, drummer Harold JonesFind albums by this artist and many others. The orchestra performs twelve classic Jazz standards, beautifully arranged by Chico O`FarrillFind albums by this artist. The music is definitely on the lighter side of the Jazz spectrum, with lush melodies and soft arrangements, spiced with beautiful soulful solos, a mixture which is appealing to a wide audience, way beyond the hardcore Jazz lovers. It is "Classical American Music" at its best, and it´s completely timeless and eternally young. However, at the time this album was recorded Swing as a genre and Big Bands playing Swing were already at their last legs, and would soon leave the stage, mostly for economic reasons, but also due to the rapidly diminishing interest in Jazz as popular music in America and the ascent of Rock and Pop as the centre of musical interest. In the historic perspective this album is a wonderful example of Big Band arrangements and the power of an orchestra, which sounds like one organic instrument, which in turn is clearly incomparable to any other form of instrumentation. As such it is a must to all Big Band lovers, but also a great portion of nostalgic fun of the highest quality. The original album had liner notes written by the great American music critic Leonard Feather, one of my role models, which is still a great fun to read today, forty five years later. Apparently great writing, same as great music, is immune to the passing of time. It´s great to have this album back in circulation! Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 28/05/2018Posted: 05/12/2016

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

COUNT BASIE / ORCHESTRA / NEW YORK VOICES ~ LIVE AT MCG BLUE JACKEL 1002 ~ USA ~ Jazz After Basie`s death, his Orchestra continues to perform and record, keeping the spirit of `swing` alive, in memory of the Master. This is a brilliant live recording of the Orchestra, with the vocal quartet `New York Voices` featured on several tracks. The sound quality is superb and the music flows and swings like there`s no tomorrow. A gem! 1 last copy in stock!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

FRANCY BOLAND ORCHESTRA ~ BLUE FAME / RED HOT / WHITE HEAT MPS 602517643888 (Barcode: 602517643888) ~ BELGIUM ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1976 Released: 2008 This is a reissue of the three albums recorded by the Belgian pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Francy BolandFind albums by this artist and his Orchestra, originally recorded in 1976 and released on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label. The 2CD album presents eighteen tracks, which include original compositions by Boland and Jazz standards, all arranged by him. The orchestra comprises of some of the best European Jazz musicians active at the time, like British saxophonists Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenny ClareFind albums by this artist, American expatriates: saxophonists Sahib ShihabFind albums by this artist and Sal NisticoFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Benny BaileyFind albums by this artist, and many other excellent musicians. American drummer Kenny ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Boland co-led The Kenny Clarke / Francy Boland Big BandFind albums by this artist between 1960 and 1972, which was one of the most formidable European Jazz Big Bands with an extensive recording legacy, with several notable releases also on the MPS label. Boland composed and arranged for the most important American Jazz Big Bands in the 1950s, like those of Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Woody HermanFind albums by this artist and Count BasieFind albums by this artist, before returning to Europe and starting his work with legendary German Big Band leader Kurt EdelhagenFind albums by this artist. The music is all within the mainstream Jazz idiom, but the sublime arrangements make it absolute timeless and distinctly different from the American Jazz Big Band tradition, with a much more complex orchestral sound and refined European aesthetics. There are plenty of wonderful soli by the orchestra members, as expected, but as usual in the European Big Band environment, the accent is on the entire orchestra sound, with the soloing being mostly the icing on the cake. Personally Mathewson’s bass playing on this album is an absolute wonder and alone worth the price of this album, but of course every note played here is simply exceptional. For Big Band / Orchestral Jazz fans this album is an absolute must of course, a true school example of what Big Band music is all about. Holy Grail! Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 09/08/2021Posted: 08/08/2021

CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend

CHARLIE CHRISTIAN ~ THE GENIUS OF THE ELECTRIC GUITAR SONY 886979303522 (Barcode: 886979303522) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1939 - 1941 Released: 2012 This Box Set collects the recordings by guitarist / composer Charlie ChristianFind albums by this artist as a member of the Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist sextet and Orchestra, which constitute the bulk of his recorded work. Christian was one of the first guitarists to use the amplified electric guitar and was instrumental in elevating the role of the guitar from accompaniment to front stage solo instrument. His playing influenced generations of guitar players and was felt beyond the Jazz sphere, most importantly in the infancy years of Rock, which was about to explode about a decade after these recordings were made. Christian died at the ridiculous young age of 25 and his death cut short perhaps one of the most promising careers, that might have developed. It is extremely rare that an artist active for such a restricted period of time managed to influence so many others, as in the case of Christian. It is entirely possible that music, as we know it, might have developed quite differently without his contribution. The music herein was recorded at the peak of the Swing era and clarinetist / composer Goodman, who was often referred to as the King Of Swing, and his sextet were truly an admirable outfit. The sextet also included vibraphonist Lionel HamptonFind albums by this artist and pianists such as Fletcher HendersonFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist and others. They play several Christian compositions in addition of course to the music composed by the leader and others. Christian´s riffs and numerous solo spots are simply brilliant and a careful listener will be able to recognize countless phrases used by future generations of guitar players. The box includes many alternative takes and studio outtakes. The albums are packed in mini-sleeves and a superbly educational booklet is also included. This Box Set is an absolute treasure for people, who wish to understand the history and development of the guitar and its role in contemporary music. For people unfamiliar with Christian´s legacy, this might be quite and experience. Of course it´s an essential piece of the Jazz legacy. Great stuff!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

KENNY CLARKE / FRANCY BOLAND BIG BAND ~ THREE LATIN ADVENTURES (LATIN KALEIDESCOPE / FELLINI 712) MPS 731452909527 (Barcode: 731452909527) ~ BELGIUM ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1968 Released: 1995 This is a reissue / remaster of two albums: “Latin KaleidoscopeFind albums with this title” and “Fellini 712Find albums with this title” recorded by the Big Band co-led by American drummer / bandleader Kenny ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Belgian pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Francy BolandFind albums by this artist, originally recorded in 1968 and released on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label. The album presents three multi-part Jazz suites: “Latin Kaleidoscope” co-composed by American composer Gary McFarlandFind albums by this artist and Boland, “Cuban Fever” and “Fellini 712” composed by Boland, all arranged by him, which span together the fourteen tracks of the album. The orchestra comprises of some of the best European Jazz musicians active at the time, like British saxophonists Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenny ClareFind albums by this artist, American expatriates: saxophonists Sahib ShihabFind albums by this artist and Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Benny BaileyFind albums by this artist and many other excellent musicians. Clarke and Boland co-led the Big Band between 1960 and 1972, which was one of the most formidable European Jazz Big Bands with an extensive recording legacy, with several notable releases also on the MPS label. Boland composed and arranged for the most important American Jazz Big Bands in the 1950s, like those of Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Woody HermanFind albums by this artist and Count BasieFind albums by this artist, before returning to Europe and starting his work with legendary German Big Band leader Kurt EdelhagenFind albums by this artist. The music is all within the mainstream Jazz idiom, but the sublime arrangements make it absolute timeless and distinctly different from the American Jazz Big Band tradition, with a much more complex orchestral sound and refined European aesthetics. The Latin accents, which were very fashionable by the mid-1960s, get a wonderful treatment here, completely eschewing the schmaltzy accents. There are plenty of wonderful soli by the orchestra members, as expected, but as usual in the European Big Band environment, the accent is on the entire orchestra sound, with the soloing being mostly the icing on the cake. Every note played here is simply exceptional. For Big Band / Orchestral Jazz fans this album is an absolute must of course, a true school example of what Big Band music is all about. Brilliant stuff! Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 16/03/2025Posted: 10/08/2021

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

KENNY CLARKE / FRANCY BOLAND BIG BAND ~ TWO ORIGINALS (ALL BLUES / SAX NO END) MPS 731452352521 (Barcode: 731452352521) ~ BELGIUM ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 1994 This is a reissue / remaster of two albums: “All BluesFind albums with this title” and “Sax No EndFind albums with this title” recorded by the international / resident in Europe Big Band, co-led by American drummer / bandleader Kenny ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Belgian pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Francy BolandFind albums by this artist. “All Blues” was originally recorded in UK in 1968 and released on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label in 1969. It was the 2nd album by the Big Band on MPS. “Sax No End” was originally recorded in Germany in 1967 and released on the legendary SABAFind albums on this label (later MPS) label in 1967. It was the 1st album by the Big Band on MPS. This reissue also adds as a bonus one tracks from the “Fellini 712Find albums with this title” album by the Big Band with a corrected mix. The album presents altogether fifteen tracks with both original albums and the bonus, which are mostly original compositions by Boland, including the three-part “All Jazz” suite, all also brilliantly arranged by Boland. The Big Band includes some of the best European Jazz musicians active at the time, like British saxophonists Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist and Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist, drummer Kenny ClareFind albums by this artist and many American expatriates: saxophonists Sahib ShihabFind albums by this artist and Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Benny BaileyFind albums by this artist and many other excellent musicians. Clarke and Boland co-led the Big Band between 1960 and 1972, which was one of the most formidable European Jazz Big Bands with an extensive recording legacy, with several notable releases also on the MPS label. Boland composed and arranged for the most important American Jazz Big Bands in the 1950s, like those of Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Woody HermanFind albums by this artist and Count BasieFind albums by this artist, before returning to Europe and starting his work with legendary German Big Band leader Kurt EdelhagenFind albums by this artist. The music is all within the mainstream Jazz idiom, but the sublime arrangements make it absolute timeless and distinctly different from the American Jazz Big Band tradition, with a much more complex orchestral sound and refined European aesthetics. There are plenty of wonderful soli by the orchestra members, as expected, but as usual in the European Big Band environment, the accent is on the entire orchestra sound, with the soloing being mostly the icing on the cake. Every note played here is simply exceptional. Overall, for Big Band / Orchestral Jazz fans this album is an absolute must of course, a true school book example of what Big Band music is all about. Holy Grail! Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 16/03/2025Posted: 16/03/2025

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE COMPLETE 1961 VILLAGE VANGUARD RECORDINGS IMPULSE! 232 (Barcode: 011105023221) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1961 Released: 1997 When this music was recorded in November of 1961 I was only 10 years old and yet it changed my life forever. Living in (Socialist) Poland, my access to contemporary (at the time) jazz originating in the US was pretty limited and the only beacon of light was the daily Willis ConoverFind albums by this artist’s radio jazz program on Voice Of America, beamed from across the Iron Curtain. Millions of Eastern European listeners would risk freedom (listening to VOA was a criminal act then) to gain freedom, myself included. These broadcasts changed the life of countless people and particularly in Poland would eventually be a dominant factor in the process of forming a burgeoning and extremely fruitful local jazz scene. Many hours of my early childhood were spent with myself standing on a conductor’s podium (e sledge), in front of an imaginary orchestra playing inside the enormous radio (a pre WW II antique). Since classical music was less censored and sponsored by the Establishment, it was there for us to enjoy most of it of very high quality. I remember listening for hours at end to the annual Chopin competition, which was Poland’s most prestigious music event, getting to know his music inside out before I even knew anything about him. My Mother encouraged my “conducting” aspirations warmly, supplementing them with occasional background information. But the discovery of jazz and its strange convoluting patterns and unfamiliar rhythms was a revelation. I just couldn’t get enough of it and every new artist or piece of music was an instant bliss. By the time I was about to hear John ColtraneFind albums by this artist for the first time I was already familiar with the music of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist, Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist and Dizzie GillespieFind albums by this artist (thanks to Mr. Conover). Conover, in contrast to many of his peers (who were stuck in be-bop or some earlier jazz sub-genre for the rest of their lives), was remarkably open-minded and understood the genius of Coltrane and his visionary contribution to the development of the Jazz Art form. He therefore featured every new Coltrane album as soon as it was released. So here I was, 10 years old, some time in early 1962, listening to the Village Vanguard sessions – an experience equivalent to a 10,000 Volts electricity shock. My life would definitely be never the same again. I hope these personal reminiscences don’t put you off too much, but I just couldn’t resist the temptation. Taking the time-travel express to now here are my comments about this music from a “45 years later” point of view. In 1961 Coltrane left AtlanticFind albums on this label (his second label, PrestigeFind albums on this label being the first) and signed a contract with Impulse!Find albums on this label, the new and ambitious jazz label run by producer Bob ThieleFind albums by this artist, where he would stay for the rest of his life. Coltrane was already following a path (mostly subconsciously) which would lead him to the edge of the known jazz explorations and beyond. His monumental Atlantic albums like Giant Steps and My Favorite Things were just a glimpse of things to come. Coltrane felt that Thiele would allow him to speed up the process of reaching the quest of musical enlightenment by allowing him total artistic freedom and supporting him all the way and he was of course right. The extensive volume of music recorded for Impulse! in the span of almost 7 years right up to his death would become the most important musical legacy of the 20th Century, so innovative and groundbreaking that it is still a mystery to many contemporary listeners and musicologists today. Coltrane’s first recording for Impulse! (in the spring of 1961) would be the Africa / Brass sessions, an ambitious project involving a large ensemble of the most gifted players on the scene (Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist, Booker LittleFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and many others) – see The Complete Africa / Brass SessionsFind albums with this title album, another essential Coltrane release. These sessions introduce several new elements in Coltrane’s music, like Far-Eastern motifs, African rhythms and other ethnic influences. In November of 1961 Thiele decided to record Coltrane live, using the 4 nights booking at the NY club The Village Vanguard (where many jazz albums were recorded live) for this purpose. The booking was for a John Coltrane Quintet and it was only natural that the Quintet would include Eric Dolphy, whom Coltrane knew, respected and played with earlier. The legendary Quartet (with McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist and Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist) was not entirely crystallized at the time, so Coltrane and Thiele decided to expand the line-up (on some takes) to include an oud player (Ahmed Abdul-MalikFind albums by this artist) and alternative bassist (Reggie WorkmanFind albums by this artist) and drummer (Roy HaynesFind albums by this artist). Since this music was recorded for a future release Thiele (as any produce would do) recorded several takes of each tune, some with an alternating line-up. This 4CDs Box Set includes all the music that was recorded during these four days (mind you not all the music that was played, as some of it was not recorded hence the “complete” being not entirely true) in the exact order it was recorded. This music was to be released later on two albums (Live At The Village Vanguard and The Other Village Vanguard Tapes) as well as parts of other albums (Impressions) and collections. Collected here together for the first time, this is a monumental piece of jazz history and an unforgettable musical experience. Coltrane’s circular breathing technique and his “wall of sound” approach are clearly evident here for the first time in their full glory. The comparison of the different versions of the same tunes are both fundamental and clairvoyant examples of the “one time experience” that every jazz performance essentially is. The power, the vision, the super-human strength of will of the Master and Prophet (please excuse the almost religious references) that Coltrane was, are here for us, his disciples, to discover, study, revere and bequest to future generations. This Box Set is something one has in one’s record collection for life. It is not only timeless, but also constantly evolving in parallel to one’s private (musical) evolution. Listening to it time after time (especially after a long period of abstention) will be revealing and constantly surprising. It is a superb example of great Art, which keeps alive for eternity, adopting itself to the changing cultural surroundings, and therefore being truly eternal. I can’t imagine anybody, who calls himself a music lover, not owning this music, as naive as this might sound, since I believe there is something in it for everybody. Beyond essential!

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 4 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

JOHN DANKWORTH ~ 5 STEPS TO DANKWORTH / JOURNEY INTO JAZZ VOCALION 5303 (Barcode: 765387530327) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1956 - 1957 Released: 2008 Saxophonist / composer / bandleader John DankworthFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of modern British Jazz. His activities on the local and international scenes since the early 1950s were instrumental in establishing a whole new generation of Jazz players, which eventually led to the flourishing and revolutionary British Jazz of the 1960s. After his first group - the John Dankworth SevenFind albums by this artist – disbanded, Dankworth established the John Dankworth OrchestraFind albums by this artist, the first British modern Big Band, which consisted of the best Jazz players in Britain at the time. Dankworth´s superb compositions and magnificent arrangements, aided by the virtuosity of his band members, were among the finest in the world and easily compared to the American Big Bands of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist and others, often surpassing their output with the sophistication and finesse of its works. This great reissue presents Dankworth´s first two recordings with his Orchestra, the debut "Journey Into JazzFind albums with this title", which includes the suite "Itinerary of an Orchestra" – Dankworth´s presentation of a Jazz Orchestra similar in concept to Benjamin BrittenFind albums by this artist´s "Young Person´s Guide to the Orchestra". As most of Dankworth´s compositions the arrangements were made by the excellent "in house" arranger David LindupFind albums by this artist. "5 Steps Into DankworthFind albums with this title", subtitled "Presenting the Music of Johnny Dankworth", concentrates on his talents as a composer and emphasized the magnificent full power of the Big Band. Together these two albums are a true treasure of great music, which lost nothing of its power and ingenuity over the years and sound completely relevant today. Brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

PAUL GONSALVES ~ HUMMING BIRD VOCALION 8404 (Barcode: 765387840426) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005 American tenor saxophonist Paul GonsalvesFind albums by this artist belongs to the same school of big tone / lush virtuosi like Coleman HawkinsFind albums by this artist and Ben WebsterFind albums by this artist, who spent most of his playing career with Big Bands, lead by Count BasieFind albums by this artist, Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and Dizzy GillespieFind albums by this artist. Therefore this particular album is especially interesting, as it captures Gonsalves in a small combo situation and additionally his fellow musicians are all young British players, who were used to play modern Jazz, rather than American mainstream. The “old timer” proves that he can stand up to the challenge with flying colors and delivers his usual fluent solos, invigorated by the flow of energy present in the studio. He is accompanied by a group of splendid musicians, which includes trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Dave HorlerFind albums by this artist, pianists Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist and Alan BranscombeFind albums by this artist, bassists Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and Kenny NapperFind albums by this artist and drummer Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist. The material includes mostly Jazz standards with one original composition by Stan Tracy. Good mainstream Jazz, but lovers of the British scene will surely enjoy the contributions by Wheeler and both pianist in an unusual setting.

Updated: 14/08/2021Posted:

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GARY GUTHMAN ~ SALUTE TO SWING! SOLITON 802 (Barcode: 5901571098029) ~ USA ~ Smooth Jazz Recorded: 1999 - 2004 Released: 2018 This is a compiled reissue of two albums by the American (resident in Warsaw) trumpeter / composer / arranger Gary GuthmanFind albums by this artist. The albums, recorded and initially released in Canada, are: "Sing, Sing, SingFind albums with this title" from 2005 and "Love TalkFind albums with this title" from 1999. Guthman leads professional Big Bands and is responsible for most of the arrangements, as well as for writing three original pieces on "Love Talk". The rest of the music comprises of well known Swing standards. As the title suggests, the music is a loving tribute to the Swing period in America, which lasted for over two decades between 1930s and early 1950s. The music was mostly played by a plethora of Big Bands and Jazz Orchestras, led by such celebrated composers / bandleaders as Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, Harry JamesFind albums by this artist, Glenn MillerFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist, Woody HermanFind albums by this artist, Tommy DorseyFind albums by this artist and numerous others. Although considered as one of the Jazz genres and certainly playing an important role in the development of the idiom, Swing was also a form of popular music and at its peak "the" popular music in the US and to some extent worldwide. Based on solid melodies, many of which became Jazz standards, Swing definitely also included and encouraged improvisation, although limited to relatively short and strictly melodic, but often masterly constructed and incredibly cleverly executed solos. Guthman is not only a great trumpet player, but first and foremost an incredibly sensitive musician in the broadest meaning of the word. He writes absolutely brilliant music, which sounds instantly as good as any Jazz standard from the "fake book", but he is also able to compose contemporary Classical music or entire musicals. He has a pair of great ears, which makes him a skillful arranger able to make the most of any setting, from a quartet to a Big Band or an Orchestra. And he is also a great person, a perfect Gentlemen and a Friend! The two albums presented here are very dissimilar, which makes this compilation even more attractive that it originally appears to be. "Sing, Sing, Sing" is a straightforward tribute to Swing, featuring all the big Swing "hits" that many people are familiar with, without even knowing what Swing means. As such it is a perfect trip down the memory lane for elderly people like yours truly, who still remember their parents dancing while these melodies were being played on the bandstand or on the radio. Guthman delivers several scorching trumpet solos and the music swings like there is no tomorrow. "Love Talk" is a completely different story. It is an exquisite showcase of Jazz arrangement, kept within the general Swing aura, but superbly orchestrated, with the full power of an Orchestra, featuring lush string layers, which is on the whole a piece of elegant, masterly woven musical delight. Guthman´s trumpet playing on this album is much softer, lyrical and Jazz oriented. Overall this album presents the charm and splendor of Swing for everybody. Less experienced listeners will enjoy the evergreens on the first album, which is basically quite danceable, while connoisseurs will delight in the seductive enticement and sophistication of the second album in this set, which is much more suitable for the intimacy a bedroom than the swish of a dancing floor. Since nobody makes music like this anymore, I am not surprised by the fact that this album was so warmly embraced by the listeners. It is after all a piece of musical history, which is still fondly remembered. Way to go, my Friend!

Updated: 01/08/2019Posted: 09/06/2018

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MARCO POSTACCHINI BIG BAND ~ ONE FINGER SNAP ALFA MUSIC 269 (Barcode: 8032050022307) ~ ITALY ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is an album by a Big Band led by Italian Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / arranger Marco PostacchiniFind albums by this artist. Two guest vocalists appear, each on two tracks. The album presents nine tracks, two of which are original compositions by the leader and the rest are Big Band arrangements of Jazz / Pop standards and Brazilian songs. The music is all well within mainstream Jazz, with typical Big Band arrangements, strongly influenced by the American tradition of orchestral Jazz, with emphasis on uniform harmonious performances spiced by numerous soli by the participating musicians. In contrast to the European Big Band tradition, which is more about the ensemble sound of the Big Band as a multi-headed performer, this album sounds similar to Count BasieFind albums by this artist or other Broadway orchestral ensembles, presenting a slick, polished and glamorous sound, which swings elegantly, inviting the listener to dance rather than listen attentively. Nevertheless, the performances are highly professional, well-coordinated and technically perfect, and the music is very well recorded with good separation enabling the listener to hear the individual instruments. Overall, this is a highly entertaining Big Band album, full of swinging music that makes the ass move involuntarily, and is a great fun to listen to. For listeners who love American Big Band music, which was at its peak in the middle of the last Century, this is heaven on earth.

Updated: 21/12/2022Posted: 21/12/2022

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

FRANK SINATRA / COUNT BASIE ~ THE COMPLETE REPRISE STUDIO RECORDINGS UNIVERSAL 602527968872 (Barcode: 602527968872) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1962 - 1964 Released: 2012 Every time I hear Frank SinatraFind albums by this artist sing, my heart melts and yet at the same time I get mad remembering what so many sanctimonious Jazz critics had to say about him and his contribution to Jazz. Let me tell you smug ignoramuses: Sinatra had more feel for Jazz in his pinky than most other Jazz vocalists you rave about. Anybody with a pair of ears used as musical devices rather than decoration will tell you that these recordings by Sinatra, accompanied by the divine Count Basie OrchestraFind albums by this artist, are pure, unadulterated Jazz classics, which stand the test of time better than most others recordings of the era. This album brings together the two studio albums Sinatra made with Basie: "An Historic Musical FirstFind albums with this title" (arranged and conducted by Neal HeftiFind albums by this artist) and "It Might As Well Be SwingFind albums with this title" (arranged and conducted by Quincy JonesFind albums by this artist), recorded a couple of years apart in the early 1960s, when both Sinatra and Basie were at their absolute artistic peak. The repertoire includes many Sinatra classic standards, which he performed repeatedly over the years live, with these particular versions being definitely remarkable. An absolute classic!

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JAREK WIST / KRZYSZTOF HERDZIN BIG BAND ~ SWINGING WITH SINATRA DUX 0090 (Barcode: 5902547000909) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2011 Released: 2013 This is a live recording of a concert dedicated, as the title suggests, to the songs which were part of the classic repertoire of Frank SinatraFind albums by this artist. The songs are performed by young Polish vocalist Jarek WistFind albums by this artist, who is accompanied by a Big Band led and conducted by distinguished veteran pianist / composer / arranger Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist. The album includes fourteen tracks, twelve of which are standards from the Sinatra repertoire and two are original compositions by Herdzin, one used as an intro and the other as a showcase to present the members of the Big Band at mid-time. Sinatra, who was often dismissed by narrow-minded Jazz buffs as a crooner and mere entertainer, was in fact one of the greatest American Jazz singers and had more swing in his toes alone than most others, certainly more than his critics. His very individual and unique treatments of the great American Songbook are the absolute Holy Grail of American Jazz vocals and remain untouched by time, incomparable, undefeated and uncontested. Especially notable are his superb recordings with Big Bands, like the Count BasieFind albums by this artist Orchestra and several others, arranged and conducted by such luminaries as Nelson RiddleFind albums by this artist, Neal HeftiFind albums by this artist or Quincy JonesFind albums by this artist. All these recordings are quintessential, pure and unadulterated Jazz classics. It is simply impossible to listen to this album without comparing it, for example, to the classic "Sinatra At The SandsFind albums with this title", recorded with the Count Basie Orchestra conducted by Quincy Jones. Unfortunately the comparison doesn´t leave much space to remain positive about this album, which is a great pity, since the intentions were probably quite honorable and the participants are all excellent musicians. I can understand Herdzin willing to step into the shoes of the great Big Band arrangers of the past and indeed his part as the arranger is probably the best ingredient of the entire package. However even these arrangements sound rather pale and lack the zest and the kick which characterize the original Sinatra recordings. I have no idea if the Big Band had ample opportunity to rehearse and considering the economic realities of a Big Band, they most probably did not, which is immediately apparent. As already stated, the participating musicians, who include pianist Piotr WrombelFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek NapiorkowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert KubiszynFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist and thirteen additional brass and reed players, are all able and talented musicians, but obviously have limited opportunities to show their skills within the Big Band collective when accompanying a lead singer. Wist is a rather ordinary singer, completely lacking the theatrical and humorous sides of Sinatra´s stage persona. His interpretations of these classic standards are simply dull and often imperfect technically. And of course there is the dreaded Polish accent and pronunciation, which is perhaps acceptable on the local market but completely unbearable to an English speaker. It´s a pity the producers of this album did not consider the additional step of getting the lyrics translated into Polish; this might have saved the day, al least to some extent. Even the audience´s applause present at the hall where this music was recorded sounds hesitant and weary and the sound quality of the recording suffers from uneven volume, poor separation and overall muddy resonance. In retrospect this was a lost case before it even begun. Tackling the enormity of Sinatra´s talent, heritage and status is not a very wise decision and such things are usually best left alone. The old saying: "a smart man knows how to get out of trouble but the wise man knows how to avoid trouble in the first place" is very appropriate here. During the concert Herdzin complains about the difficulty of his multi-talented persona (he not only arranged the songs, composed two pieces and conducted the band, but also plays the piano on one track and sings on another). Perhaps there is a lesson here for him, since after all he is an extremely talented person. On the other hand those who don´t do don´t make mistakes, and he surely does a lot.

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