Dexter Gordon Quartet - Live At The Maintenance Shop (1979)

A show that captures the beauty of the quartet that Dexter toured with from the late 70's through the early-80's. Greatly improved sound, a relaxed performance and decent video quality for its age. Tracks extracted from video and converted to FLAC and video re-encoded with improved sound to MKV. Both available in separate downloads, enjoy! 

TV Broadcast [Music Air]
Recorded 1979 At Iowa State University 

Musicians:
Dexter Gordon - Tenor Saxophone
George Cables - Piano
Rufus Reid - Bass
Eddie Gladden - Drums 

Tracks:
1. On Green Dolphin Street {Bronisław Kaper, Ned Washington} (15:20)
2. Polka Dots And Moonbeams {Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Burke} (15:19)
3. Tanya {Donald Byrd} (23:04) 

Total Time: 53:43

Manuel Valera And New Cuban Express - In Motion (2014)

What’s new in the idiom of jazz? The next generation of Cuban musicians have arrived. Look no further than what they have brought with them. They have infused the Blues and Jazz with Blues and Jazz of their own. Their music is tempestuous, beguiling and always exciting. Like making that left turn unexpectedly to find something so inviting that the listener is stopped in his or her tracks. This new album by Manuel Valera and the New Cuban Express In Motion is the third release since Mr. Valera formed the band. The new cast of characters includes the terrific bassist, Hans Glawischnig and awesome trumpeter Alex Sipiagin. This incarnation makes them somewhat stronger than they have ever been, their sound has become rounder and fuller with the addition of a trumpet and the more voluptuous acoustic bass. Manuel Valera has taken musical meter and stretched it as far as it possibly can. His writing plays on the innermost ear like a very fast game of hopscotch, swinging, skittering and chasing the stone. Of all of the Cuban pianists playing today Mr. Valera’s pianism is most strongly aligned to classic melodicism. The rhythmic element of his left hand exists in the dance-like structure that holds up the melody like an edifice that is suddenly built before the wonderstruck listener. His statements are elaborate as he expands on the geometry of the melody making wondrous structures in a high-wire act that is breathtaking to behold. Here, on In Motion his music unfolds best in the collaborative effort that he has forged with this ensemble. His ability to arrive in the limelight and withdraw from it is generous. This is evident in most of the music here, but is especially gracious on "Descargando," the profoundly beautiful "Bantu" and the epic "Storyteller," which are just three of the defining tracks on this exquisite album. ~ Extract by Raul Da Gama, LatinJazzNet.com. 

Criss Cross Jazz, Criss 1372 CD, 2014
Recorded 29th January, 2014 at Systems Two Recording Studios, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Manuel Valera - Piano, Fender Rhodes
Alex Sipiagin - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Yosvany Terry - Alto & Soprano Saxophones, Chekeré
Tom Guarna - Guitar
Hans Glawischnig - Bass
Ludwig Alfonso - Drums
Mauricio Herrera - Percussion 

Tracks:
1. Descargando {Manuel Valera} (6:24)
2. Preamble {Manuel Valera} (8:55)
3. Bantu {Manuel Valera} (6:48)
4. No Puedo Ser Felix {José Arturo Méndez} (5:42)
5. Storyteller {Manuel Valera} (8:45)
6. Mirrors {Manuel Valera} (7:19)
7. Para Emiliano {Manuel Valera} (6:23)
8. NYC {Manuel Valera} (6:37)
9. Factors {Manuel Valera} (6:22) 

Total Time: 63:23

Credits:
Producer - Gerry Teekens
Recording & Mixing Engineer - Michael Marciano
Mastering - Max Ross
Photography - Jimmy Katz
Design - Gerry Teekens/Bloemendaal In Vorm

Max Ionata, Clarence Penn, Reuben Rogers - Kind Of Trio (2011)

Trio of great harmony, already experienced in the past with another successful album, this time Max Ionata, Clarence Penn and Reuben Rogers compete in a recording project using the original formula of the trio and give us a total of eleven tracks with nine original pieces signed by the three musicians. Max Ionata is considered one of the most exciting saxophonists of the Italian jazz scene, he has played in some of the most important jazz clubs and jazz festivals in the world and has collaborated with great musicians. Clarence Penn, described by some critics as the most elegant of contemporary jazz drummer chosen by many for his versatility in all kinds of music. Reuben Rogers, bass player of exceptional musical talent, has had the opportunity also to work with many international jazz artists. More than just another trio! 

Via Veneto Jazz, VVJ 074, 2011
Recorded 22nd-25th March, 2011 at Icarus Recording Studios, Rome, Italy 

Musicians:
Max Ionata - Tenor Saxophone
Reuben Rogers - Double Bass
Clarence Penn - Drums 

Tracks:
01. Brotherhood {Clarence Penn} (6:48)
02. Con Alma {Arr. Reuben Rogers; Dizzy Gillespie} (7:22)
03. Kumico {Max Ionata} (4:16)
04. But {Max Ionata} (5:22)
05. Out Back {Clarence Penn} (5:34)
06. Nuovo Cinema Paradiso [Love Theme] {Ennio Morricone} (5:51)
07. The Change {Max Ionata} (4:03)
08. To Be {Reuben Rogers} (5:51)
09. Raven {Clarence Penn} (4:28)
10. Aurora {Max Ionata} (6:29)
11. Waiting For Eli {Clarence Penn} (3:59) 

Total Time: 60:09 

Credits:
Recording, Mixing & Mastering - Stefano Del Vecchio
Artwork - Enzo Criscione
Photography - Paolo Soriani

Jake Langley - Diggin' In [Deluxe Version] (2011)

Guitarist Jake Langley's Diggin' In features organist Joey DeFrancesco and drummer Terry Clarke playing mostly standards in a Wes Montgomery vein. Learning that much by reading the CD cover suggests a contemporary Lee Ritenour-style treatment with enough twists from DeFrancesco's presence for an intelligent recreational listen. The sort of album, in other words, for unwinding after a long day when one isn't ready to completely submit to the mental enema of typical contemporary. Langley, 30, a Toronto resident selected as Canada's guitarist of the year in the National Jazz Awards, possesses stylings that carries over from studies with Pat Martino and Jim Hall, plus plenty of influence from the Montgomery school. Diggin' In, his third solo album, returns to the lower-key trio playing of his debut Doug's Garage after showcasing a collection of funk/acid/Latin originals with a larger cast on Non Fiction. Consistency is a good summary for this set, never venturing into uncomfortably exploration or hollow mailed-in territory. Langley keeps the melodies recognizable and his soloing elaborates rather than reinterprets. His plucking runs the range of leisurely to lively, easily absorbed without being completely predictable. Montgomery's "O.G.D." has a laid-back feel, for instance, but Langley spices it up with a rapid series of post-bop runs. He also displays a fine command for upbeat blues on "The Garage," the lone original composition on this album. His blues-ballad rendition of Billie Holiday's "God Bless The Child" is a smooth change of pace, although it fails to leave any lasting impressions. The same might be said for the album as a whole - while it's pleasant, it may not linger beyond the moment the listener hits the "off" switch. DeFrancesco has more acclaimed outings on his resume, but he isn't being called upon to go all out and delivers well for the setting. His tone and a bit of extra kick compared to Langley's treatments, plus offering some extra depth as an accompanist, are what will spur listeners to pick this over similar trio discs when the mood arises. Clarke gets little time on his own, but generally his loose-style playing feels like a living organism propelling things ahead. Diggin' In doesn't cover any new territory, but does a good job within the one it does occupy as long as listeners are seeking comfort rather than a life-changing experience. It's also comforting knowing Langley is capable of mixing styles album to album, making his past and future efforts worth keeping an eye on if this one satisfies. ~ by Mark Sabbatini, AAJ. 

Alma Records, ACD14292, 2004
Tonepoet Records, Digital, 2011
Recorded in Reaction Studio, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 

Musicians:
Jake Langley - Guitar
Joey DeFrancesco - Organ [Hammond B-3]
Byron Landham - Drums (#1-7)
Steve Gadd (#9-11) 

Tracks:
01. O. G. D. (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [6:40]
02. God Bless The Child (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [8:14]
03. Cheesecake (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [8:21]
04. The Garage (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [5:34]
05. Sugar (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [6:39]
06. Blues For Jim San (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [8:16]
07. Gibraltar (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Byron Landham) [9:43]
08. Maya (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Steve Gadd) [6:24]
09. Continental Blues (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Steve Gadd) [5:56]
10. Bolivia (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Steve Gadd) [4:58]
11. Desert Sun (feat. Joey DeFrancesco, Steve Gadd) [6:59] 

Total Time: 01:17:44 

Credits:
Producer, Mixing - Jake Langley
Engineer - Ormond Jobin
Mastering - Peter J. Moore
Design, Layout Design - Howard
Photography - Denise Grant

Erica Lindsay, Sumi Tonooka - Initiation (2004)

Recorded back in 2004, this is a brand-new release on the cusp of becoming a welcome rediscovery. A quartet jazz session featuring compositions by tenor saxophonist/Bard College professor Erica Lindsay and pianist Sumi Tonooka along with an absolutely killer rhythm section of Rufus Reid on bass and Bob Braye on drums, most of this dexterously walks the line between purism and accessibility. Lindsay plays with a confident, smoky tone and a keen sense of melody; likewise, Tonooka’s style is comfortably bluesy and assured. Reid is his usual fluid, smartly melodic self and Braye - who sadly did not live to see this album released – turns in a powerful, memorable performance. If this was his swan song, he picked a hell of a note to go out on, whether getting the cymbals shimmering on a turnaround or elevating the third track above the level of So What homage with an aggressive, full-scale, Elvin Jones-style charge. The opening track, Mari is a catchy, hook-based swing number; Lindsay evokes Joe Henderson with her casually tuneful, wee hours vibe reasserted by Sunooka and then Reid, cleverly foreshadowing Lindsay’s return from the bar. Mingus Mood, a thoughtful ballad, is less Mingus than Grover Washington Jr. (don’t laugh!!!) in purist mode, i.e., circa All My Tomorrows, almost minimalist as Lindsay and then Reid carries the tune over Tonooka’s tersely precise chords. The title track playful shifts from tricky, winking intro to a casual Lindsay solo that she builds smartly and casually around a series of rapid-fire clusters; Tonooka deftly works her solo rhythmically with Latin flourishes. The somewhat hypnotic Serpent’s Tail plays an understated rhumba rhythm off a repetitive Reid riff that both sax and piano use as a springboard for expansively tasteful excursions. The late 50s riff-driven swing vibe returns pleasantly with In the Void, followed by the ballad Somewhere Near Heaven which powerfully contrasts brooding, sometimes ominous, Bill Mays-ish piano with pensively optimistic sax. Black Urgency shuffles with a tunefulness and sense of direction worthy of JD Allen and features Braye at his most counterintuitive and incisive. The album closes with arguably its strongest (and most rhythmically challenging) number, simply titled Yes, Lindsay and then Tonooka at their most forceful and memorable, whether pulsing on the beat or swirling with rivulets of glissandos. There’s a lot to enjoy here, more than an hour’s worth of tunes. ~ LucidCulture. 

Artists Recording Collective, ARC2000, 2009
Recorded 19th-23rd October, 2004 At John Hodians Studio, Woodstock, New York 

Musicians:
Erica Lindsay - Tenor Saxophone
Sumi Tonooka - Piano
Rufus Reid - Bass
Bob Braye - Drums 

Tracks:
01. Mari {Erica Lindsay} (5:26)
02. Mingus Mood {Sumi Tonooka} (7:50)
03. South Street {Sumi Tonooka} (7:41)
04. Initiation {Sumi Tonooka} (5:37)
05. Serpent's Tale {Erica Lindsay} (8:16)
06. In The Void {Sumi Tonooka} (8:34)
07. Somewhere Near Heaven {Erica Lindsay} (5:39)
08. Black Urgency {Erica Lindsay} (6:19)
09. The Gift {Sumi Tonooka} (8:17)
10. Yes {Erica Lindsay} (6:06) 

Total Time: 69:45

Credits:
Producer, Mixing & Mastering - Erica Lindsay
Producer - Sumi Tonooka
Recording Engineer - Bob Beleicki
Design, Photography - Paul Tsang

Seamus Blake Quartet - Live In Italy [2CD] (2007)

Back in 2002, Seamus Blake established himself firmly as tenor player of interest with a first-place finish in the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition. Since then, his rapidly growing discography, as well as collaborations with artists like John Scofield, suggests that the attention is well-deserved. The four originals, including Blake's "The Jupiter Line" and "Fear of Roaming," offer great melodies and solo work, while the standards offer opportunities for sensitive reinvention. "Darn That Dream" opens with a lush, unaccompanied tenor statement that suggests the influence of Sonny Rollins and Michael Brecker. The group then launches into a rendition filled with romance and originality, and doesn't have to overreach for either. The same sensitivity can be found in an arrangement of Debussy's "String Quartet in G Minor." This redesigned piece features light, dynamic playing from the rhythm section, while Blake reaches his altissimo with a sweetly classical intonation. Another virtuoso display of explosive melody from the piano crescendos into sax work that's all fire, before giving way to a gorgeous, minimalist bass solo. Blake demonstrates a wonderful ear for melody throughout. His solos are always developing, and the results are frequently as fun and catchy as any head. And while his agility and command will certainly inspire some awe, he plays with soul - never losing sight of the larger musical picture in a flurry of technical push-ups. His upbeat "Way Out of Willy" grooves along on a tight funk groove from the drums and piano. For his solo, Blake uses wah-wah and other effects to turn himself into a horn-guitar hybrid. Few musicians can pull this kind of thing off without descending into gimmickry, but Blake's raw virtuosity and artful sense of tone-play keep things cooking. Kikoski, who consistently matches the leader with ecstatic keyboard work and an incredible rhythmic vocabulary, rises to the challenge of the electric sax with a statement full of acoustic funk. Starting out simply, he alternates dizzying runs with intricate, foot-stamping beats that build to a fevered intensity, before Blake returns to cool things down. This is a quartet that makes every tune sound easy, and it sounds even better thanks to a superb recording job. As exhilarating as a shot of espresso, this album should rank among the best of 2009. Even more exciting will be seeing what comes next for Blake and his quartet, wherever they play. ~ by Warren Allen, AAJ. 

Jazz Eyes, 005, 2008
Recorded February, 2007 during Italian Tour in:
Palermo (#101,102,205)
Senigallia (#103,202)
Cesenatico (#104,201,203,204) 

Musicians:
Seamus Blake - Tenor Saxophone
David Kikoski - Piano
Danton Boller - Bass
Rodney Green - Drums 

CD1:
1. The Jupiter Line {Seamus Blake} (11:46)
2. Way Out Of Willy {Seamus Blake} (10:34)
3. String Quartet In G Minor [Second Movement] {Claude Debussy} (16:54)
4. Fear Of Roaming {Seamus Blake} (13:08) 

Time: 52:22 

CD2:
1. The Feeling Of Jazz {Duke Ellington} (11:17)
2. Spacing {David Kikoski} (10:07)
3. Ladeirinha {Djavan} (7:57)
4. Darn That Dream {Jimmy Van Heusen, Eddie De Lange} (12:50)
5. Dance Me Home {John Scofield} (10:19) 

Time: 52:30 

Total Time: 01:44:52 

Credits:
Producer - Seamus Blake
Executive Producer - Paul Siculiana, Toti Cannistraro
Recording - Maurizio Curcio
Mixing & Mastering - Katsuhiko Naito
Cover Photo - Enza Tambora
Photos - www.domenicoaronica.com 

Note:
Discs ripped to WAV, excess applause edited, tracks optimised, re-encoded & labeled.
Screens captured from video; album Info, artwork & reviews added to post.

Roseanna Vitro - Passion Dance (1996)

One of the top jazz singers of the 1990s, Roseanna Vitro is a versatile vocalist who is not afraid to take chances. On her Telarc debut, the personnel changes on many of the ten selections with the stars among the sidemen including pianist Ken Werner (Vitro's musical director), altoist Gary Bartz, trumpeter Tim Hagans, bassist Christian McBride and drummer Elvin Jones. Among the highpoints of the diverse repertoire are an adventurous "Freedom Jazz Dance," "Out of This World," "Long as You're Livin '," McCoy Tyner's "Passion Dance" and "Strollin"' (an adaptation of Charles Mingus' "Nostalgia in Times Square"). The only number that does not work is an over-the-top rendition of "More than You Know" that is overly complex; simplicity would have been much more effective. Otherwise, this is a superior set by a very appealing singer. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Telarc Jazz, CD-83385, 1996
Recorded 19th July, 1994 at Skyline Studios, New York
& January, 1995 at Sound On Sound Studios, New York 

Musicians:
Roseanna Vitro - Vocals, Arranger
Tim Hagans - Trumpet
John Fedchock - Trombone
Gary Bartz - Alto Saxophone
Tim Ries - Tenor Saxophone
Kenny Werner - Piano, Arranger
Larry Willis - Piano
Kevin Mahogany - Piano, Vocals (#8)
Steve Nelson - Vibraphone
Romero Lubambo, Vic Juris - Guitar
Christian McBride, Ratzo B. Harris, Richie Goods - Bass
Clarence Penn, Elvin Jones - Drums
Jamey Haddad - Drums, Percussion 

Tracks:
01. Out Of This World {Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer} (5:29)
02. Long As You're Livin' {Oscar Brown Jr., Julian Priester, Tommy Turrentine} (6:16)
03. Returned To Me ["The Bird"] {Tex Allen} (5:32)
04. Freedom Jazz Dance {Eddie Harris} (5:18)
05. For Heaven's Sake {Elise Bretton, Sherman Edwards, Don Meyer} (5:04)
06. Whisper Not {Benny Golson} (4:50)
07. Simone {Frank Foster, Cheryl Pyle} (7:24)
08. Blue Monk {Thelonious Monk} (5:14)
09. Passion Dance {McCoy Tyner, Roseanna Vitro} (6:41)
10. More Than You Know {Edward Eliscu, Billy Rose, Vincent Youmans} (7:20)
11. Strollin' [Nostalgia In Times Square] {Charles Mingus} (5:20) 

Total Time: 64:32

Credits:
Producer, Engineer, Mixing - Paul Wickliffe
Executive Producer - Robert Woods
Assistant Engineer - Devin Emke, Rich Lamb, Ed Raso
Production Supervisor - Elaine Martone
Art Direction, Cover Design - Anilda Carrasquillo
Photography - Carol Friedman
Liner Notes - Roseanna Vitro, Michael G. Nastos

Klaus Suonsaari, NHØP, Niels Lan Doky - The Music Of Tom Harrell (1989)

Klaus Suonsaari is one musician for whom swing is a basic criterion for any musical project. Klaus and Tom Harrell started working together in 1985. Tom appears on Klaus’ 1988 debut album for Storyville Records "Reflecting Times" which also showcases Suonsaari's composing and arranging talents. This recording of Tom Harrell composition came about through Klaus' continued exposure to Tom's music. ~ StoryvilleRecords.com. 

An interesting concept. A trio of ace European musicians led by Klaus Suonsaari plays songs composed by trumpeter Tom Harrell, not among the better-known jazz writers but a fine contemporary player. Suonsaari teams with bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and pianist Niels Lan Doky to give Harrell unexpected exposure as a composer. ~ by Ron Wynn, AMG. 

Anaïs Records, 3ACD004, 1990
The Jazz Alliance, TJA-100 10, 1992
Storyville Records, STCD 8303, 2000
Recorded 30th July, 1989 at MTV Music Studios, Helsinki, Finland 

Musicians:
Klaus Suonsaari - Drums
Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen - Acoustic Bass
Niels Lan Doky - Piano

Tracks:
1. Journey To The Centre {Tom Harrell} (4:01)
2. Buffalo Wings {Tom Harrell} (5:08)
3. Songflower {Tom Harrell} (6:54)
4. Terrestris {Tom Harrell} (6:13)
5. Water's Edge {Tom Harrell} (4:27)
6. Bell {Tom Harrell} (6:43)
7. Bright {Tom Harrell} (3:01)
8. Serenity {Klaus Suonsaari} (5:21)
9. Camera In A Bag {Ray Drummond} (4:56) 

Total Time: 46:48 

Credits:
Producer - Klaus Suonsaari
Executive Producer - Edouard Detmer
Recording Engineer - Harri Sutinen
Mastering Engineer - Jan Erik Kongshaug
Liner Notes - Ray Drummond

Klaus Suonsaari - Something In Common (1998)

Klaus Suonsaari's concern with sound and balance extend to the ensemble as well. Critic Jon Pareles, writing in the New York Times, stated that "Mr. Suonsaari fulfilled one of a bandleader's most important duties: choosing his group members well." Here Klaus has gathered one well-chosen assemblage of top American performers, and another consisting of respected players from his homeland, with the aim of bridging the gap between continents, and revealing the commonality of intent among European and American jazz artists. Klaus succeeds as a leader because of his sense of balance and his ability to find common ground between seemingly different elements. Tradition and originality... the European and American aesthetic... lyric beauty and freewheeling expressionism ("Song For S.R." is a glorious example) ... Klaus always finds "something in common" with which to engage the listener. ~ StoryvilleRecords.Bandcamp.com. 

Storyville Records, STCD 4218, 1998
11th-12th April, 1992 (#1-6) at Finnish Broadcasting Studios, Helsinki, Finland;
17th-18th February, 1989 (#7-12) at RPM Studio, New York City 

Musicians:
Klaus Suonsaari - Drums, Percussion & Vocals (#12), Arranger
Jukka Perko - Alto Saxophone (#2,6) Soprano Saxophone (#1,5)
Jerry Bergonzi - Tenor Saxophone (#7-12), Arranger (#9,10)
Jarmo Savolainen - Piano (#1,2,3,5,6), Arranger (#5)
Niels Lan Doky - Piano (#7-12)
Severi Pyysalo - Vibraphone (#1,2,5,6), Arranger (#6)
Mike Mainieri - Vibraphone (#7,8,11)
Eerik Siikasaari - Bass (#1,2,3,5,6)
Ray Drummond - Bass (#7-12)
Bobby Sanabria - Percussion 

Tracks:
01. Ritual {Klaus Suonsaari} (7:39)
02. Jaska {Eerik Siikasaari} (6:25)
03. Motion {Klaus Suonsaari} (7:00)
04. Song For S.R. {Klaus Suonsaari} (2:05)
05. Inseparable {Jarmo Savolainen} (5:49)
06. Burning Bridges {Severi Pyysalo} (6:33)
07. Serenity {Klaus Suonsaari} (5:47)
08. Miles Apart [Part 2] {Klaus Suonsaari} (5:51)
09. Jab {Jerry Bergonzi} (7:20)
10. If I Were A Bell {Frank Loesser} (4:48)
11. Blues For G {Klaus Suonsaari} (6:54)
12. Happy People {Klaus Suonsaari} (5:07) 

Total Time: 71:18

Credits:
Producer - Klaus Suonsaari
Executive Producer - Karl Emil Knudsen
Engineer - Heikki Antero Savolainen [Helsinki]
Engineer - A.T. Michel [NYC]
Engineer - Hans Nielsen [Focus Recording, Copenhagen]
Layout - Richard Meyrick
Photo - Marja-Leena Helin
Artwork & Design [Cover] - Tina Eskilsson
Liner Notes - Scott Robinson

Junior Parker - I Tell Stories Sad and True... (LP Flac rip)

 One of Parker's final albums before dying prematurely from a brain tumor only months later.

  I Tell Stories Sad and True, I Sing the Blues and Play Harmonica Too, It Is Very Funky [United Artists, 1972]
"Once a big man on the blues circuit, Parker was turning into the forgotten Beale Streeter by the time he died last year, and this is a respectful farewell--Sonny Lester, who wrecked his recent collaboration with Jimmy McGriff, keeps things simple (well, fairly simple). Never as penetrating as B.B. or Bobby, Parker smooths his way over the arrangements with the calm of a man who was mellow before the concept existed, at least in its present de-racinated form. Highlight: the sad, true story that goes with "Funny How Time Slips Away." " [R. Christgau]

René Marie - Vertigo (2001)

Rene Marie's second CD for MaxJazz is, for the most part, a very enjoyable CD. This extremely gifted singer has a very appealing voice and is a talented arranger as well. Her playful arrangement of "Them There Eyes," with bassist Robert Hurst and drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts, is very refreshing, with some fine scat singing, too. Her unusually deliberate and rather sexy take of "The Surrey With the Fringe on Top" adds pianist Mulgrew Miller and also has some fine scat singing, too. Her Latin chart for "I Only Have Eyes for You" proves catchy, with some tasty guitar playing from John Hart. "It's All Right With Me" is slowed to a snail's pace with Chris Potter's noodling bass clarinet and Hurst's brooding bass backing her powerful vocal. "Vertigo," another Marie original, is easily the most exciting piece on the session. The only occasion when she follows anything resembling an expected path is her lush treatment of the ballad "Detour Ahead" in a memorable duet with Miller. There are some weak spots. The original "Don't Look at Me Like That" is monotonous filler; while the Beatles' "Blackbird" is drastically rewritten with a tedious vamp that gives the song a somewhat ominous sound, but it grows tiresome quickly. The medley of "Dixie" (a song reviled by most African-Americans) and "Strange Fruit" (with its dramatic description of lynching) invites controversy. She sings "Dixie" a cappella with a possible touch of sarcasm, then the band is added for the shift into the piece that was first put on the map by Billie Holiday, introduced with almost a funeral march-like cadence. Somehow Rene Marie's lovely voice seems inappropriate for this song, as she doesn't reflect the anguish of its lyrics very consistently. Even with these reservations, this is a highly recommended CD. ~ by Ken Dryden, AMG. 

MaxJazz, MXJ 411, 2001
Recorded 22nd & 23rd February, 2001 at Avatar Studios, New York 

Musicians:
René Marie - Vocals, Arranger
Jeremy Pelt - Trumpet (#4,10)
Chris Potter - Bass Clarinet (#6), Tenor Saxophone (#7,9)
Mulgrew Miller - Piano (#2,3,7-10)
John Hart - Guitar (#4,5)
Robert Hurst - Bass (#1-7,9-11)
Jeff "Tain" Watts - Drums (#1-4,7,9-11)
Jeffrey Haynes - Percussion (#4,5,7,11) 

Tracks:
01. Them There Eyes {Doris Tauber, Maceo Pinkard, William Tracey} (5:18)
02. Surrey With The Fringe On Top {Oscar Hammerstein II, Richard Rodgers} (6:25)
03. I'd Rather Talk About You {René Marie} (4:54)
04. Don't Look At Me Like That {René Marie} (5:15)
05. I Only Have Eyes for You {Al Dubin, Harry Warren} (6:38)
06. It's All Right With Me {Cole Porter} (4:01)
07. Vertigo {René Marie} (7:57)
08. Detour Ahead {Herb Ellis, John Frigo, Lou Carter} (5:32)
09. Moonray {Arthur Quenzer, Artie Shaw, Nat Madison} (7:34)
10. Dixie/Strange Fruit (7:00)
11. Blackbird {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (6:22) 

Total Time: 66:56 

Credits:
Producer - Bruce Barth, Arranger
Executive Producer - MAXJAZZ
Engineer, Mixing & Mastering - Katsuhiko Naito
Mastering - Katsuhiko Naito
Photography - Jimmy & Dena Katz
Liner Notes - Mary Ellen Sullivan

Klaus Suonsaari - Inside Out (1995)

Klaus Suonsaari is a perfect example of how throughly jazz music has become an international institution. Born in Finland, into a musical family that had a lot of jazz records, Klaus began piano lessons at age six and settled into his drum kit by fourteen. 

Finn drummer Klaus Suonsaari with global super group comprised of vibist Steve Nelson, reeder Scott Robinson, trumpeter Scott Wendholt, pianist Renee Rosnes and bassist Ray Drummond; With original material, modern and ancient standards, we're fed the nectars of a supersencious jazz beauty like seemingly only a drummer's finesse may wrest off the guardians’ petals and hand it to his band without any enchantment lost. ~ TheEclectic. 

Soul Note, 121274-2, 1995
Recorded 7th & 8th March, 1994 at Systems Two Recording Studios, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Klaus Suonsaari - Drums
Scott Wendholt – Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Scott Robinson - Tenor & Soprano Saxophones, Flute
Renee Rosnes - Piano
Steve Nelson - Vibraphone
Ray Drummond - Bass 

Tracks:
01. Wake-Up Call {Scott Robinson} (5:19)
02. Her Song {Klaus Suonsaari} (7:13)
03. Driftin' {Herbie Hancock} (6:44)
04. I'll Be Around {Alex Wilder} (7:31)
05. Choices {Klaus Suonsaari} (7:34)
06. For The Three Of Us {Paul Read} (6:17)
07. Everyday {Klaus Suonsaari} (7:26)
08. There's A Small Hotel {Lorenz Hart, Richard Rodgers} (8:40)
09. Dreaming Of You {Klaus Suonsaari} (5:58)
10. Inside Out {Klaus Suonsaari} (8:40) 

Total Time: 01:11:29 

Credits:
Producer - Klaus Suonsaari
Executive-Producer - Flavio Bonandrini
Recording Engineer - Mike Marciano
Engineer [Assistant] - Don Ranieri
Editing Engineer - Joe Marciano
Mastering Engineer - Gennaro Carone
Cover [Art] - Susan Rotolo
Photography - Ari Heinonen, Leena Isbom

BeatleJazz - A Bite Of The Apple (1999)

As the group's and album's names suggest, Beatlejazz's A Bite Out of the Apple use Lennon and McCartney tunes as the basis of their jazz improvisations. Tracks like "Junk," "Come Together," "I Am the Walrus," and "Mother Nature's Son" get the jazz trio treatment, resulting in an accessible and often entertaining collection. ~ by Heather Phares, AMG. 

Marvellous!
This CD became an instant favourite of my collection. The pieces are an ingenious transformation of Beatles compositions into mainstream Jazz. Hardcore Beatles afficionados will dislike the freedom with which the musicians interpret the originals. It takes a bit of tolerance to accept Eleanor Rigby as a hard bob piece. But then, this is what Jazz is about! I particularly marvel at the well-thought-out interpretations and the technical skill of the musicians. The piano solo on "I am The Walrus" that mimics the whole orchestra piece at the end deserves particular recognition. Absolutely Great! ~ Thomas D., Amazon.com. 

Zebra Acoustic, ZA 44410-2, 2000
Recorded November, 1998 at Davis Studio, New York 

Musicians:
David Kikoski - Piano, Arranger
Charles Fambrough - Bass
Brian Melvin - Drums, Arranger 

Tracks:
1. Junk {Paul McCartney} (5:59)
2. Come Together {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:45)
3. It's Only Love {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (3:58)
4. Love {John Lennon} (7:54)
5. If I Fell {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (6:18)
6. Eleanor Rigby {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (6:27)
7. I Am The Walrus {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (6:03)
8. Within You, Without You {George Harrison} (5:12)
9. Mother Nature's Son {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (6:09) 

Total Time: 53:48 

Credits:
Producer - David Kikoski
Producer, Mixing & Mastering - Brian Melvin
Recording Engineer - Steve Davis
Mixing & Mastering - Russell Lieblich
Director - Ricky Schultz
Art Direction, Package Design - Doug Haverty

BeatleJazz - Another Bite Of The Apple (2001)

With their follow-up to A Bite of the Apple, the trio of pianist David Kikoski, bassist Charles Fambrough, and drummer Brian Melvin continue to jazz up the Beatles' songbook in relatively impressive fashion with this 2001 release. Besides the familiar melodies and memorable themes, the artists effectively inject a distinct sense of swing amid impassioned soloing and an upbeat demeanor to the Beatles' historic legacy. Here, the musicians reharmonize many of the now-familiar motifs into forums for extended improvisations, a few funk grooves, peppery interplay, and buoyantly executed rhythms, as the band should be commended for their stylized approach to the Liverpool legends' pop/rock frameworks. Thus, in lesser hands, the listener might be subjected to humdrum, straightforward renditions of songs most of us have heard ad infinitum; otherwise, the trio often instills a sense of ownership and good cheer throughout this altogether vibrant affair. ~ by Glenn Astarita, AMG. 

Zebra Acoustic, ZA 44411-2, 2001
Recorded April, 2001 at Peter Karl's Studio, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
David Kikoski - Piano, Arranger
Charles Fambrough - Bass
Brian Melvin - Drums, Arranger 

Tracks:
01. I'll Follow The Sun {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:03)
02. Here, There And Everywhere {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:33)
03. Let It Be {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:50)
04. Give Me Love {George Harrison} (3:52)
05. Michelle {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:20)
06. Magical Mystery Tour {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:12)
07. It Won't Be Long {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (3:44)
08. Blackbird {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:10)
09. Julia {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:49)
10. Blue Jay Way {George Harrison} (3:43)
11. Tomorrow Never Knows {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:36) 

Total Time: 50:52

Credits:
Producer - David Kikoski
Producer, Mixing, Concept - Brian Melvin
Executive-Producer - Ricky Schultz
Recording Engineer - Peter Karl
Mixing Engineer - Matt Baxter
Mastering Engineer - Joe Gastwirt
Art Direction, Design - Doug Haverty [Art & Soul Design]
Photography - Carl Studna, Cheung Ching Ming

BeatleJazz - With A Little Help From Our Friends (2005)

Let me be the first to admit that I am prejudiced against jazz musicians covering the Beatles. This is in no way related to the source material: like all sentient mammals on the Planet Earth, I adore pretty much every note the Fabs recorded. It's just that their material is so weighted with cultural and nostalgic baggage that (unlike standards like, say, "All the Things You Are" it retains too much of its Beatleness to be just a set of chords: it's them. Or it's us - Abbey Road and Revolver have inhabited our collections so long that they're intertwined in our lives. It only took Dave Kikoski's gorgeous piano intro and Brian Melvin's hypnotic tabla pattern on "Yes It Is", the opening track of BeatleJazz's third CD, With a Little Help From Our Friends, to confound my cynical expectations. BeatleJazz is composed of Melvin on drums and tablas, Kikoski on piano and synth, and Larry Grenadier on bass. The core group is augmented by the "friends of the CD's title: John Scofield and Mike Stern on guitar; Mike and Randy Brecker on tenor sax and trumpet, respectively; and on four tracks, Boris Koslov substituted on bass. The results are for the most part delightful. Many jazz-covers-rock albums allow the musicians to sleepwalk through bland, jazz-lite arrangements, content to let the familiarity of the material sell the product. Not here: the performances teem with deep concentration and the arrangements are imaginative and very, very smart. For example, "Strawberry Fields Forever" sheds the baroque studio experimentation of the 1967 single but is otherwise played straight. Kikoski's piano does the melodic heavy lifting, and when the group plays the coda (Grenadier's bowed bass taking the place of the groaning strings of the original), one is struck dumb by how wonderful, how novel that section of the song is. The lack of harmonic development on John Lennon's solo rant "Working Class Hero" is dealt with by going pedal-point: Mike Brecker and Kikoski channel Coltrane and McCoy Tyner, respectively, and remake the song as a searching, beseechingly modal ten-minute prayer. Not everything is that wonderful. Randy Brecker and Kikoski do their best on Lennon's "Imagine", and very nearly pull it off - not surprisingly, as a ballad - but here the song is just too intractable. Even though it's a solo Lennon composition, its utopian sentiment makes it the most Beatle number here in the way it signifies so much more than its words or melody. Brecker's playing that melody so faithfully, right down to the two notes of Lennon's vocal "you-hoo", doesn't help. On the other hand, John Scofield absolutely nails "I Will"; this Paul McCartney number's chords lend themselves well to jazz and Sco's solo is the best he's done in some time - sweet, spacious, and wise. It's a tribute to the quality of this album that my unfortunate bigotries could be so thwarted. Too bad BeatleJazz can't immediately do another CD: I'm eager to hear their versions of "All Things Must Pass" and "She Said She Said". ~ by Paul Olson, AAJ. 

Lightyear Entertainment, LTY 54685-2, 2005
Recorded 20th April, 2003 at:
Peter Karl's Studio, Brooklyn, New York
System Two Studios, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Dave Kikoski - Piano, Synthesizer, Arranger
Larry Grenadier - Bass
Boris Koslov - Bass
Brian Melvin - Drums, Tabla, Arranger 

Guests:
Michael Brecker - Saxophone (#6)
Randy Brecker - Trumpet (#3)
John Scofield - Guitar (#2,5)
Mike Stern - Guitar (#7,10) 

Tracks:
01. Yes It Is {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (7:32)
02. Piggies {George Harrison} (7:52)
03. Imagine {John Lennon} (9:54)
04. Strawberry Fields Forever {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:59)
05. I Will {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (8:09)
06. Working Class Hero {John Lennon} (11:03)
07. A Hard Day's Night {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:55)
08. Across The Universe {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:36)
09. Lovely Rita {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:16)
10. And I Love Her {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:50)
11. The End {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:04)
12. Chains {Gerry Goffin, Carole King} (4:48) 

Total Time: 79:58 

Credits:
Producer - Dave Kikoski
Producer, Mixing, Liner Notes - Brian Melvin
Executive Producer - Hisao Ebine
Engineer - Peter Karl, Jon Rosenberg
Mastering - Matt Baxter
Cover Photo, Photography - Carl Studna
Photography - Takehiko Tokiwa
Art Direction, Package Design - Doug Haverty

BeatleJazz - All You Need (2007)

Drummer Brian Melvin, keyboardist Dave Kikoski and bassist Larry Grenadier have hit on a winning combination with their BeatleJazz project, which features inventive jazz arrangements of Beatles melodies both familiar and (relatively) obscure. You might expect treacly, easy listening arrangements of these tunes, but the group instead opts for experimentation, and its experiments are usually successful. As usual, they have enlisted some help from their friends (sorry), and All You Need features contributions from legendary saxophonist Joe Lovano, bassist Richard Bona and harmonica virtuoso Toots Thielemans. Some of the treatments are fairly straight-ahead: "Fool on the Hill" is rendered as a lilting jazz waltz, and "The Night Before" is given a standard piano-trio arrangement prominently featuring Kikoski's Fender Rhodes piano. But "The Continuing Story of Bungalow Bill" is played in a sharp and edgy style, and Bona sings "All You Need Is Love" affectingly in duala, his native language. On "Lady Madonna" the group takes a melody that is treacherously difficult to swing and manages to do just that, taking rhythmic liberties as necessary and turning the tune into a credible jazz vehicle. "Look at Me," one of the tracks on which Lovano makes an appearance, features some excellent blowing by the master but doesn't hang together quite as well as an arrangement. Overall, though, this album is a solid winner. ~ by Rick Anderson, AMG. 

Lightyear Entertainment, LTY 54796, 2007
Recorded 12th June, 2006 at Systems Two Studios, Brooklyn, New York;
8th & 13th June, 2006 at Peter Karl Studio, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Dave Kikoski - Arranger, Piano, Synthesizer
Larry Grenadier - Bass (#1-3,5,7-9,11)
Brian Melvin - Drums, Tabla, Arranger 

Guests:
Joe Lovano - Saxophone (#3,8)
Toots Thielemans - Harmonica (#1,7,11)
Richard Bona - Bass, Vocals (#4,6,10) 

Tracks:
01. Fool On The Hill {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:24)
02. Lady Madonna {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (4:39)
03. The Continuing Story Of Bungalow Bill {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (7:09)
04. All You Need Is Love {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (5:20)
05. All Things Must Pass {George Harrison} (5:42)
06. The Night Before {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (7:40)
07. Beautiful Boy {John Lennon} (6:28)
08. Look At Me {John Lennon} (6:46)
09. I Want You [She's So Heavy] {John Lennon, Paul McCartney} (7:18)
10. Cold Turkey {John Lennon} (7:16)
11. Waterfalls {Paul McCartney} (3:35) 

Total Time: 66:17 

Credits:
Producer - Dave Kikoski
Producer, Mixing - Brian Melvin
Executive Producer - Hisao Ebine
Engineer - Michael Marciano [Systems Two Studios]
Engineer [Assistant] - Mike Ross [Systems Two Studios]
Engineer - Jonathan Townesm [Peter Karl Studio]
Mixing - John Gronvall [Arcadia Studios]
Mixing [Assistant] - Sten Saluveer (#1,7,11) [Arcadia Studios]
Mastering - Matt Baxter [Baxter's Ranch]
Photography - John Abbott
Artwork, Design - Marju Toom-Melvin

John Campbell - Turning Point (1990)

A good second album for pianist Campbell on the Contemporary label, this one had an added bonus of excellent contributions from jazz immortal Clark Terry. His spry solos and presence elevated both the session and the other participants, particularly Campbell, who played with much more edge and energy than on his previous release. He used different rhythm section personnel as well, this time recruiting Jay Anderson and Joel Spencer. ~ by Ron Wynn, AMG. 

Great performer. Good selection of his work. Since he has few recordings, all of his albums are worth purchasing to hear his work. ~ Kathy Meehanon, Amazon.com. 

Contemporary Records, CCD-14061-2, 1990
Recorded 18th-19th June, 1990 Direct to Digital at BMG Recording Studios, NYC 

Musicians:
John Campbell - Piano
Clark Terry - Trumpet, Flugelhorn (#2,5,8,10)
Jay Anderson - Bass
Joel Spencer - Drums 

Tracks:
01. You Stepped Out Of A Dream {Nacio Herb Brown, Gus Kahn} (5:06)
02. Chicken Red {John Campbell} (4:35)
03. Quicksilver {John Campbell} (6:21)
04. Tin Tin Deo {Gil Fuller, Dizzy Gillespie, Chano Pozo} (6:01)
05. In Orbit {Clark Terry} (4:15)
06. Turning Point {John Campbell} (5:12)
07. Shaw 'Nuff {Ray Brown, Gil Fuller, Dizzy Gillespie} (4:47)
08. Canadian Sunset {John Campbell} (4:28)
09. Prelude To A Kiss {Duke Ellington} (5:46)
10. This Time The Dream's On Me {Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer} (4:48) 

Total Time: 51:21

Credits:
Producer - Terry Gibbs
Recording Engineer - Rick Rowe
Mastering - George Horn (Fantasy Studios, Berkeley)
Artwork, Design, Illustrations - Gilles Margerin
Art Direction - Phil Carroll
Liner Notes - Kevin Whitehead

Roseanna Vitro - Listen Here (1982)

Vocalist Roseanna Vitro - performer, recording artist, educator and journalist - reissues 'Listen Here', the debut album that launched her career. Featuring veteran pianist Kenny Barron, the project ushered into the spotlight a formidable new artist with chops and sensitivity in equal measure - a galvanizing spirit who, having already proven she could move live audiences, now certified her power on vinyl. Though this is a first recording, Vitro shows herself a mature jazz singer. Vitro decided to re-release 'Listen Here' because the time was right. She and her husband Paul Wickliffe, an accomplished sound engineer with a storied career, recently became grand- parents. Their perspective has changed. "It was time to take stock of my life and look back at my career," she says. "Some of my earlier records were never transferred to a digital format, so they are no longer available. And many reviewers and DJ's who have known me over the years have moved on. I think these early recordings stand the test of time, and I want to introduce them to a new generation." Esteemed jazz journalist Neil Tesser said in USA Today, "Roseanna can sing rings around half the vocalists you can name. Her warm, confident clarity of tone is immediately noticeable, but most startling is her boldness of phrasing." He might have added, "her unerring talent for finding the truth - through song, through the communal experience of sharing it." The evidence can be heard easily. 

Texas Rose Music, TRM1001, 1984
Skyline Records, 2001, 2021
Recorded 4th October, 1982 at Skyline Studios, New York City 

Musicians:
Roseanna Vitro - Vocals
Arnett Cobb -Saxophone (#A3,A4,B2)
Kenny Barron - Piano
Bliss Rodriguez - Piano (#A3)
Scott Hardy - Guitar (#A6)
Buster Williams - Bass
Ben Riley - Drums
Duduka Da Fonseca - Percussion (#A1,A6) 

Tracks:
A1. No More Blues {Antônio Carlos Jobim, Vinicius de Moraes, Jon Hendricks} (3:02)
A2. You Go To My Head {Haven Gillespie, J. Fred Coots} (4:12)
A3. Centerpiece {Harry Edison, Jon Hendricks} (4:59)
A4. Love You Madly {Duke Ellington} (4:54)
A5. A Time For Love {Johnny Mandel, Paul Francis Webster} (5:43)
A6. This Happy Madness {Antônio Carlos Jobim, Vinicius de Moraes} (3:39)
B1. Listen Here {David Frishberg} (3:06)
B2. It Could Happen To You {Johnny Burke, James Van Heusen} (3:20)
B3. Easy Street {Alan Rankin Jones} (3:48)
B4. Sometime Ago {Sergio Mihanovich} (3:49)
B5. You Took Advantage Of Me {Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart} (3:13)
B6. Black Coffee {Paul Francis Webster, Sonny Burke} (5:10) 

Total Time: 49:00

Credits:
Producer, Recording & Mixing - Paul Wickliffe
Associate Producer, Arranger - Fred Hersch
Cover Design - Jayne Travis
Photography - Ian Anderson
Liner Notes - Steve Allen

Roseanna Vitro - Softly (1993)

Singer Roseanna Vitro is expert at interpreting lyrics and scats with a strong sense of adventure. Ballads predominate on her excellent Concord CD, but there are also a few cookers (including a surprisingly rapid "I'm Through With Love"). The singer covers a wide variety of material (some of it of recent vintage) with a touching version of "So Many Stars" being a high point. Vitro is greatly assisted by a fine trio starring pianist Fred Hersch; the tenors of Tim Ries and George Coleman help out on some selections. This rewarding CD gives one a fine example of Roseanna Vitro's talents. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Concord Jazz, CCD-4587, 1993
Recorded at:
Horizon Sound, New Jersey;
Skyline Studios, New York 

Musicians:
Roseanna Vitro - Vocals
Tim Ries - Saxophone (#3,4,8,9)
George Coleman - Saxophone (#7,12,13)
Fred Hersch - Piano
Jay Anderson - Bass
Tom Rainey - Drums
Mino Cinelu - Percussion 

Tracks:
01. Falling In Love With Love {Lorenz Hart, Richard Rodgers} (3:37)
02. In Summer {Bruno Brighetti, Jon Hendricks, Bruno Martino} (5:36)
03. A Song For All Ages {Fred Hersch, Cheryl Pyle} (4:54)
04. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise {Oscar Hammerstein II, Sigmund Romberg} (4:38)
05. Moon And Sand {William Engvick, Morty Palitz, Alec Wilder} (4:24)
06. So Many Stars {Alan Bergman, Marilyn Keith, Sergio Mendes} (6:05)
07. I'm Through With Love {Gus Kahn, Fud Livingston, Matty Malneck} (3:44)
08. Wild Is The Wind {Dimitri Tiomkin, Ned Washington} (6:17)
09. Life I Choose {Tom Harrell, Cheryl Pyle} (4:18)
10. Our Love Rolls On {Dave Frishberg} (3:54)
11. Nothing Like You {Bob Dorough, Fran Landesman} (3:07)
12. Why Try To Change Me Now? {Cy Coleman, Joseph McCarthy} (5:11)
13. I Ain't Got Nothin' But The Blues {Duke Ellington, Don George} (4:45) 

Total Time: 60:38

Credits:
Producer - Roseanna Vitro
Producer, Engineer, Mixing, Photography - Paul Wickliffe
Executive Producer - Carl Jefferson
Production Coordination - Elizabeth Bell
Assistant - Matt Curry, John Wall
Mastering - George Horn
Hair Stylist - Claudio Ugalde
Liner Notes - Zan Stewart

Clark Terry All Stars Band - New Morning Jazz Blues Festival, Geneve (1994)

In 1994, Clark Terry took to the stage at the New Morning Jazz and Blues Festival in Geneva alongside his quartet, All Stars, composed of Dado Moroni on piano, Pierre Boussaguet on bass, and Alvin Queen on drums. He begins the concert with a trumpet solo, every note emanating his particular energy, one of warmth, sincerity and musical generosity. This mood sustains for the first part of the concert, with the group rolling out the solos, devoting themselves to jazz standards such as "Bye Bye Blackbird", Misty" and "Perdido" to name a few from this enthralling set. Clark Terry, the man who inspired the careers of Quincy Jones and Miles Davis, the man who played with Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie and all the greats of the era, remains one of the most recorded and award-winning artists in history. ~ extract by Anaïs Christidis Guillemard. 

Recorded at New Morning Jazz Blues Festival, Geneve in 1994
Released: 2009 

Musicians:
Clark Terry - Trumpet
Dado Moroni - Piano
Pierre Boussaguet - Bass
Alvin Queen - Drums 

Total Time: 52:05

Credits:
Realization - Patrick Savey
Co-Producers - Daniel Farhi, Etienne Mirlesse, Jean-Daniel Bloesch
Assistant Director - Nathalie Portman
Montage HD - Frederic Sery
Sound Engineer [Venue] - Kiet Nguyen
Manager - Patrick Merz
MCM Production Director - Francois Niviere