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
pjw, that was remark made in goodwill. I consider you as a true jazz listener...but I do think that another jazz admirerer od even a jazz player can deepen the process of taking pleasure in jazz listening...



mary_jo
Glad to hear you are getting into Charles Mingus. It's always exciting to discover new artists. Mingus was one of a kind : a great composer, bassist and bandleader. You can't go wrong with any of his music but may I suggest as a starting point the albums  " Tijuana Moods" and "Mingus Ah Um".
I agree with your comments on Chet Baker. His singing is ok but as you said" his trumpet is beyond his voice".
;
pjw
It's refreshing to hear you say you want to learn more about how to listen to jazz and are thinking of turning to books for help. I too reached this point many years ago and did that.
I believed this reading and studying enhanced my jazz listening experience and believe me when I say I also have a long way to go .
Give me a day or so and I will mention some book titles  you may be interested in.
I know that even if someone is not a musician you CAN increase  awareness and enjoyment of the listening experience.