Jazz for aficionados

I told The Frogman some time ago, that he knew too much. This proves it. While The O-10 and I were jamming to Tito, in blissful ignorance, The Frogman was keeping time.

Of course he is correct. But, no one is suggesting Tito's version supplant Brubeck. The original will always be just that, The First!

But it is possible for susequent artist to do any tune 'better'. Happens every day. Better recording techniques, better instrumentation, better arrangements, better players etc...

I think Tito is better not because of any time uniqueness, but because of the Latin flavor and the percussion. It was faster! It made me wanna move!

Brubeck never made me move. It was a Nice tune, melody, a great drum solo and Desmond's tone. I know the TIME thingy, but that's not why I like it. I suspect, only the pros and his peers, realized the significance of the TIME thing.

And last but not least, I could SEE Tito and his guys playing. On a CD, I might not have been as impressed. But both versions are great. I own LPs and two CDs of 'Take Five' by Brubeck, none by Tito.

Brubeck did a lot of experiments with time. Some more successful than others. 'Take Five' was popular because of the melody and the unique sax(tone) and drum playing.

So can we say, I like Tito's "take Four', better than Brubeck's 'Take Five'. Sort of like preferring Mongo Santa Maria's 'cloud Nine' to any other.

Brubeck's version is on the local PBS FM station's playlist. When it comes on, the wife cranks the volume all the way up. The only Jazz tune she likes. :)

I wonder what Tito could do with 'Blue Rondo A La Turk' I bet that would be something!

Thanks for your informed input Frogman. You are a vital asset to this thread.

Cheers

The Frogman:

I agree with your comments on scatting. I was trying to say some what the same thing about Dee Dee. Her voice becomes harsh when she does it. With some singers, it has become the 'obligatory' scat break. Most often, adding nothing to the performance.

Ella was in another league and I thought she could 'solo' with players. Not all perhaps, but certainly some. It's almost unfair to compare anyone to her.

Cheers

Rok, I don't disagree with you except for two things. First is that I don't believe one ever knows too much. Or, at least, don't assume that knowing means there's no jamming :-) . The second, well.... its really not worthy of disagreement; it's personal preference. Tito's version is better for you. Of course, that is cool. For me the original is better not because its the original, but because I like and appreciate the chamber-jazz feel of it, the coolness if you will; and Desmond, that sound.....!

Cheers.

Speaking of jamming, this is unbelievable! How does one explain genius?

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-on4qQYDGVA

Rahsaan is on fire. Tete, brilliant as usual.

Frogman,

Thanks for the great clip. Sizzling stuff.