Charlie Ventura Plays Hi Fi Jazz

Hey gang!!  I have been sitting on this completed transfer for a few weeks now.  I actually opted to not share it, mostly because the transfer quality isn't where I would like it to be, and the music is easily found on remastered CD.  That said, after several listenings I realized I am my own worst critic - the music is more important than my ego.

This post is really focused on those cats who haven't had the chance to hear Ventura in a small group.  There isn't anything revolutionary happening on this Tops record, but the playing and the vibes are all excellent.  Our main man plays a different sax on each track, including bass!!  Laid back feel in his playing, even on the up tempo numbers and overall there's a wonderful bluesy logic.

The band hold it down as only the best can do.  Billy Bean is heard on a few tracks with his gorgeous soloing.  McKenna also gets mention for some terrific comping.  Overall this one's a winner, especially if you enjoy that mainstream/swing sound.  I cleaned up the record as best I could, without hurting the music itself.  There's no doubt about the source, but if you're a vinyl fan I think you will find it less interruptive and more "atmospheric".  Yes, that's what we'll call it.  Ripped at 24/48 wav and transferred to 24/48 FLAC, this album is sure to get your weekend started right... enjoy!!!

By 1956 tenor-saxophonist Charlie Ventura no longer had a regular band and was drifting into semi-retirement. In fact, other than an album for King the following year and a set for Famous Door in 1977, this Lp was his final recording. Teamed with the then-unknown pianist Dave McKenna, guitarist Billy Bean, bassist Richard Davis (at the beginning of his career) and drummer Mousey Alexander,Ventura switches between tenor, alto, baritone and bass saxophones. The repertoire is filled with swing and dixieland standards including such unlikely songs as "When The Saints Go Marching In," "Bill Bailey" and "Sweet Sue" (in addition to a remake of Ventura's old hit with Gene Krupa "Dark Eyes") but the interpretations are full of spirit and swing. Although it may not look too promising, this budget Lp (which is long out of print but may be found at a cheap price) is actually well worth picking up. - Scott Yanow

1957 Tops Records ‎– L1528

Dizzy Gillespie 1960 - 63

I know that many of you are looking at this post with great excitement, can't say I blame you!  These wonderful gems have been provided by our friend and Crypt brother - Tom Ryan.  For some of you, this will be an introduction to Tom's work which is exactly why I chose these sides.  Many of us are privvy to Mr. Ryan's great contributions, but for the rest of you, I have decided to start rolling out some of his amazing efforts.

These albums are all killer, no filler.  These were Diz' working bands at the time, and they were rock solid.  Superb music, executed by one of jazz' finest sons.  I want to assure you that none of these LPs have any of the corniness which began to creep into his later albums.  My personal favorite would have to be 'Something Old, Something New'.

Let's make sure we thank Tom for these and keep your eyes peeled for more of his great vinyl transfers!!  Enjoy!!

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Something Old, Something New

1963

Philips

Vinyl Rip + Front & Back Covers

FLAC

1.  Bebop

2.  Good Bait

3.  Medley:  I can't Get Started / 'Round Midnight

4.  Dizzy's Atmosphere

5.  November Afternoon

6.  This Lovely Feeling

7.  The Day After

8.  Cup Bearers   

Dizzy Gillespie, trumpet;  James Moody, tenor and alto sax, flute; Kenny Barron, piano;  Chris White, bass;  Rudy Collins, drums

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The Ebullient Mr. Gillespie

1960

Verve MG V-8328

Vinyl Rip + Front & Back Covers

FLAC

1.  Swing Low, Sweet Cadillac

2.  Always

3.  Willow Weep For Me

4.  Ungawa

5.  Lorraine

6.  Girl Of My Dreams

7.  Constatinople

8.  The Umbrella Man

Dizzy Gillespie, trumpet;  Junior Mance, piano;  Leslie  Spann, flute and guitar;  

Sam Jones, bass;  Lex Humphries, drums;  Francisco "Chino" Pozo, conga drums

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New Wave!
1962
Philips PHM 200-070
Vinyl Rip + Front & Back Covers
FLAC

1. In A Shanty In Old Shanty Town
2. Careless Love
3. Chega De Saudade (No More Blues-Part II)
4. Taboo
5. Gee Baby Ain't I Good To You
6. One Note Samba
7. Morning Of The Carnival (Theme From Black Orpheus)
8. Pergunte Ao Joao (Ask John)


Dizzy Gillespie, trumpet; Leo Wright, alto saxophone & flute; Lolo Schifrin, piano;
Chris White, bass; Rudy Collins, drums; Bola Sete, guitar; Jose Paula, guitar & Tambourine;
Carmen Costa, cabasa, Charlie Ventura, tenor and bass saxophone