Louis And The All Stars - The Best Of Louis Armstrong

Based on the title, you would probably assume that this is a collection of tunes culled from previously released albums.

Nope.

Well then in that case, these tunes must be the most popular and incredible songs Louis has ever laid to wax.

Not really.

I'm sure there was some marketing angle behind the naming of the album, but it is in all fact a regular session for Louis and his group.  While recording for television, Louis was offered the chance to record and took it.  He decided he wanted to put together a tribute to his mentor and jazz guru extraordinaire, King Oliver.  The tunes on this side are mostly from Oliver's book and date back to the 20's.  Considering the fact that the band didn't know most of these songs prior to recording, makes the album all the more amazing.  I can promise you that this is possibly the greatest cover of St. James Infirmary ever commited to record.  The rest of the album swings hard with a variety of moods and feels.

This LP is in excellent condition with some groove wear in the typical places ie; opening tracks on each side. The recording is of course wonderful and when the band is in full swing, the signal easily buries any noise.  Overall an enjoyable listen, I just wish it could have been pristine.  Louis' voice really soars out of the speakers, overtop the music and is truly a great listening experience.  Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC... enjoy!!

Recorded in 1959 - Hollywood, CA