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

Showing 50 responses by acman3

Pjw, Always a fan of the "Going Back Home" recording. but wondered what Paul Motian or Billy Higgins would have done with the record.

Actually, I like the playing from Ginger Baker here live, better than the recording, and he looks like he is having fun. Maybe he found a guitarist and bass player who are good. :)
I wrote a long comparison of Ginger Baker and people who had played the same songs off his "Going Back Home' cd with different groups.

 I then noticed that was not what Pjw asked. He wanted to know about the live videos, so I deleted my post. 

Just wanted to explain in case someone read the post before I deleted them.
The more I listened to how great Randy Weston was, the more I realized how wonderful a player Billy Harper is.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVGDGwgt9MA
I agree.  It is impossible to even say what Ellington or Mingus is their best.

I was only poking the bear with my comments regarding sales being any type of barometer of best.

Where is Art Pepper plus 11?
Recently my Son-in-law asked me for one Jazz record to buy.  I said Kind of Blue without thinking, although it is not in my top 25 favorites. 
Nice little recording with very good playing. We discussed Chris Potter about a year ago, but glad to see him come back around.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Enpa3A0dmd4
Yes, I noticed that One from Amos was actually from Firm Roots. I will have to double check next time. Apologies.