Customer Reviews

The Complete Dial Sessions

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Recorded from 1945-1947, this CD set respresents Charlie Parker at his most creative. The genius of Bird - the creator of Bebop - is clearly evident in his solos: they unfold with daring melodic and rhythmic invention, clear tone, and with a precise, underlying logic that seems impossible at the sizzling speed with which he plays. While many jazz musicians seem to "play with the changes", Bird invents solos so new and complete its as if he's composing a song every time he solos. And, this CD set has many of Bird's own compositions, all of which formed the backbone of the Bebop musician's repertoire. Also, A young Miles Davis is on hand for almost every tune. His solos, full of simple intricacy, demonstrate how Miles was also one of the few true improvisers/creators in Jazz. This CD set is a must for any Jazz, Bebop, Parker, or Davis fan or enthusiast. Even Classical music fans may appreciate Bird's improvisation, for it is strongly influenced by Baroque-era notions of melodic creation. Listen to Bach's 2- or 3-part piano inventions, then listen to Bird. You'll be amazed at what you find, or rather, what you hear.

I am not a fan of alternate takes and usually skip them, but with Bird is different. Each take, he would improvise a unique and perfect solo. These recordings are up there with Louis Armsrtong hot five and sevens or Ellington's blanton webster band. I've heard some tracks on the newly remastered complete savoy and dial recordings, and well, I do prefer this one. The new release sounds more 'crisp' and 'clear', but this one has a more 'real sound', although you also get more hiss. I compared 'Yardbird suite' on both releases, and the version on the new edition has an annoying sound in the background, the same sound that my laptop hard drive does when is thinking really hard.

i agree with the other two reviewers, this is charlie p. at his best and most vigourous; the early years, and with a variety of sidemen. Side three, with Miles is so good; i think Mile's early years are bizarrely overlooked by Miles fans. Here is miles, age 18, playing with the top jazz man of the era, and not only not intimidated, but blowing cool already. Gotta hear it, man.