Jazz for aficionados
"Blood Count" was a featured piece for Stan Getz for decades. As much as I love Johnny Hodges, it's Getz who embodies the song. There are numerous YouTubes and recorded version. Here's some interesting commentary about Getz and the song.That's the sum total of my comments about "Blood Count". I stand by this statement. It is not a statement of fact, but of opinion. To be perfectly honest I do not understand the consternation these few sentences have raised, particularly since the arguments against my comments are nothing more than opinions. For instance: It's totally 100% impossible for anyone other than Johnny Hodges to embody the essence of what Billy Strayhorn has written better than, "Johnny Hodges". you cannot say a player can 'embody' a tune written by a great composer, on his death bed, and written for players of whom he had a very intimate knowledge as people and players.Are these anything more than opinions? What I particularly like about how Getz works the tune is that he strips it down to what I would call its essence. It's raw and emotional. Those are two words not often associated with Ellington/Strayhorn. You could argue that Getz is violating the intent of the composer. If he is, so be it. That's one of the reasons jazz performances are considered creative events as opposed to recitals. Please make allowances for me not knowing the official orthodoxy regarding Strayhorn/Hodges and "Blood Count". Apparently Elvis Costello didn't get the message either. |
****** You could argue that Getz is violating the intent of the composer. If he is, so be it.******* If this is true, then how, pray tell, could he embody the intent of the tune at the same time. I think this guy is an 'audiophile'. He should go back to the 'wire' and 'mine is better than your' arena. Cheers |
