Customer Reviews

I Remember Jolson

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Brian Gari, Eddie Cantor's grandson, comes back with his second album based on the occasional pairing of Mr. Cantor with his legendary contemporary, Al Jolson. This one is different than the first (which consisted of six radio shows on which the two appeared together) in that it consists mostly of Cantor's reminiscence about Jolson, much of it culled from Cantor's early-50's talk-and-music radio show entitled "Show Business Old and New." The anecdotes are familiar, for the most part, but told with the usual impeccable Cantor timing. He peppers his remarks with Jolson recordings, all from the Deccas of the late 1940's. Perhaps this CD is most noteworthy for what it reveals about Cantor, instead of about Jolson. Cantor is both willing and able to recognize Jolson's contributions to show business, something Jolson would never have done in return. Cantor proves himself gracious and humble, as well as a raconteur par excellence. Makes one doubly sad that Cantor's health failed so dramatically in the 50's before we were able to get more permanent video versions of his recollections, as he doubtless would have been a popular late-night talk show guest.

Subtitled Every Jolson Story Cantor ever told! this recording is a gem that belongs in every Jolson library. Lovingly produced by Cantor's grandson, Brian Gari, it includes: Time To Smile (excerpt with Joan Davis kidding about Jolson); Old Man Jolson (parody in a clear arrangement from 1948); The Stories (17 minutes of stories about Jolson); Jolson Salute (24 minutes from Show Business Old & New, an October 1953 Jolson memorial show); and Eddie singing along with the Decca recordings of Jolson doing "Carolina In The Morning," "For Me And My Gal," and "By The Light Of The Slivery Moon." Excuse me Natalie, but this is really UNFORGETTABLE!

This is a unique and fascinating item that is a welcome addition to my collection! All Jolson fans should have this reminder of Al's talents and accomplishments.