Customer Reviews

Jazz Round Midnight

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

 

 

I have lauded the "Jazz 'Round Midnight" series on Verve previously as being great late night music as well as a good intro to an artist with which one may not be familiar. This is no exception to that statement.

This compilation is taken from the years 1955, 1956, 1965, and 1967 which were prime time for Chet, especially his vocal stylings (9 of 14 tracks) which exuded a kind of innocence and definitely an appeal which coudn't be denied. Coupled with the guitar backing of Kenny Burell, the combination is unbeatable!

I've always been fascinated with his trumpet playing, which on these ballads has a rather haunting sadness which seems to have been a reflection on his life. Check out "You Go To My Head" or "These Foolish Things". "Alone Together" has such an aura of loneliness that one should be sharing the moment with someone while listening to this.

Bottom line this is perfect late night music, and while not being indicative of his more uptempo capabilities, it is a good introduction to the world of Chet Baker.

This album touched me from my head to my toes! The entire thing is flawless, perfectly balanced, musically, and just plain sends me every time I listen to it. Favorite tracks include "The Touch of Your Lips" and "You're Mine, You!" The romantic in me absolutely loves the choice of tunes and the musician in me really gets into the spareness of the 'arrangements' and groove. There is nothing cooler than Chet baker on horn or vocals.

I have been a jazz fan for many years, but somehow the music of Chet Baker had more or less eluded me. After a few friends highly recommended picking up anything by him, I gave this CD a shot. They were right. This is some incredible music. There is something about this man's voice and they way he plays his trumpet that just gives me chills. It is certainly not happy, upbeat music, but sometimes it can feel good to experience this kind of pain.

I would definitely recommend this CD to any jazz lover that is unfamiliar with Chet Baker. It will undoubtedly make you a fan, and will have you searching for other necessary CDs by him, as I am doing now.

Very mellow and bluesy instrumental and vocal tunes. Good for those lonely and introspective days and evenings. For a more fiery chet listen to the "italian sessions".