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Toots Thielemans

Has anyone seen Toot's Live? He's 89 now and still touring. I was listening to his 'Aquarela Do Brasil' release because I'm a huge Elis Regina fan.

If you don't know Toot's, Google search him. He's the best harmonica player that ever lived, and I don't think anyone would even argue with that statement. If you live in the U.S. and are 45 years old or younger, he's the guy playing the harmonica at the end of Sesame Street.
donjr
isochronism
2,893 posts
 
(Ray) Brown Ballad with Quincy Jones Orchestra ... sweet stuff!!!
lokie's avatar
lokie
528 posts
 
Saw him in Paris at the Louvre with Lionel Hampton's Band.
How's that for one upmanship.

Somebody must have listened to PBS last night.
frogman
7,441 posts
 
I guess I would argue with the "best" statement. For "best " harmonica player designation, it would be hard to not look at Larry Adler, an amazing virtuoso. But I would certainly agree that Toots is the best Jazz harmonica player.

If you like "Aquarela Do Brazil", you should check out his "Brazil Project". One of his more commercial projects, but beautiful music and audiophile grade sonics. Another favorite is his work as sideman on one of Bill Evans' lesser known records, "Affinity".
donjr OP
1,335 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. I agree with everything you have all posted. Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only one into this stuff. I listen to a wide range of music. To give you an example, I was listening to 24 bit 9 Inch Nails today, and am now listening to Pink Martini. I even like some old country music but not much. I will soon be listening to Brazilain Bossa Nova.
frogman
7,441 posts
 
Donjr, check this out. Enjoy.

http://m.youtube.com/index?desktop_uri=%2F&gl=US#/watch?v=WaU0gDSmi84
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