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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
7,859 posts
 
Frogman:

"Notice how they both approach it from below which gives certain sung notes an ever so slightly flat intonation until they are brought up to the pitch center; gives the singing a subtle tension-and-release quality that is very expressive."

I pulled out my copy of Nancy and Cannonball. I listened for what you described. I think I know what you are talking about. I will now go back and compare her to Jimmy. BTW, she didn't sing long enough, before Cannonball and the boys took over the CD. :(

I would have never noticed that on my own. First I would have been too involved staring at the CD cover photo. Then listening to her wonderful voice.

It's good to have a person with your background in the group. Even I, might be able to learn something!

She is one of the few big time singers I have seen / heard in person. Constitution Hall in D.C.

Thanks for the insight.

Cheers.
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
Rknight:
Folks don't wade thru Braxton's mind, they go via 4 wheel drive hummer!! :) Otherwise you might end up like the guys in the old Tarzan movies, up to your neck in quicksand. Good Luck!

Cheers
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
Today's Playlist:

Walter Davis Jr.(piano) -- Davis Cup
w/ Jackie McLean / Donald Byrd / Sam Jones / Art Taylor

Straight-Ahead, Hard Bop, Blue Note Session. Some critics say one of the best ever! All tunes written by Davis. Great supporting cast. Very enjoyable record.

Walter Davis Jr. -- In Walked Thelonious

Davis playing solo piano. All of Monk's tunes are here. At least 14 are. Mapleshade Production, so you know the recording is excellent. Think of it as Davis' take on Monk, without all the 'clutter'. No flat piano here!! This man didn't record much, and this is one of his best, along with the one listed above. Get them both. You won't be sorry.

Now, The Piece de Resistance!!!

Rahsaan Roland Kirk -- Blacknuss

He plays everything from Motown, to The Old Rugged cross!! Not a weak, or throw a way, track on the CD.
He is funny, serious, profound, silly and absolutely brilliant, all at the same time! He also sings and plays several instruments at the same time.
This CD is a MUST HAVE!! You know you have to have it, so if you ain't got it, git it!!

I have another one of his I will 'review' tomorrow.

Cheers
orpheus10 OP
8,668 posts
 

While Rok and I disagreed on the sonic qualities of the music in that bargain set, we absolutely did not disagree on the absolute qualities of the music. This music belongs in anyone's jazz collection who considers himself an "aficionado". I have, and I will continue to pay an exorbitant price for this music. If this set meets your sonic requirements, then you have received "manna from heaven". Here is a very small sample from "you tube".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u_lv_Q3VPM

That very beautiful lady on the cover is Tammy, and she graces the cover of my LP. Every time I hear this, I feel Tammy's fragrant breeze.

Another cut on this same LP is "On Green Dolphin Street". This is the coolest "Green Dolphin Street" on record. I can still feel Tammy's fragrant breeze while I'm listening to it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRNzx9d-D-o

Enjoy the music.
rok2id's avatar
rok2id
7,859 posts
 
Heard Today:

Etta Jones (vocals) -- Don't go to Strangers
She should be more well known and highly regarded. She can sing with the big girls. Does 'fine & mellow'. Only Billie could do it better.

Andrew Hill (piano) -- But Not Farewell
Plays with a quintet. I like it, better than I used to. Has been on the 'save for later' shelf for years.

Gonzalo Rubalcaba (piano) -- The Blessing
Trio with Charlie Haden and Jack DeJohnette. Not two of my favorites, but they are a good fit here. Nice version of 'Besame Mucho'. Another Cuban Virtuoso.

Murray Perahia (piano) -- Bach Keyboard Concertos Nos. 3, 5, 6, 7
Not Jazz? Hmmmmmm, maybe. But great Music and I did listen to it today.

Cheers
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