Customer Reviews

Legendary Cleo Brown

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

 

 

Before becoming a Christian and deserting her Jazz sensibilities, Cleo Brown mixed it up brilliantly with some of the better jazz players of her day (Gene Krupa on drums, for instance). This CD features her pre-war Decca sides, when she was a "party girl" who could play some great piano. The remastering work on these 78 rpm originals is quite good - there is only occasional minor disc noise.

Those who like the piano work of Fats Waller, Teddy Wilson, or Mary Lou Williams will find this disk a delight. From the same period (mid-30's), and of the same swinging sensibility as the three giants mentioned above, Cleo had a unique spin on the music that was all her own.

My first exposure was finding one 78 side of hers, "The Stuff is Here (and it's mellow)" which is included here - after playing it I was bewitched by this woman's energetic delivery. She displays a campy sense of humor in her vocal inflection, which takes some getting used to, but once you're used to it, you'll be hooked.

I agree whole heartedly with the previous reviewers and do not have much to add. I will say that the remastering of this music is very good. There is one other person whose style is similar to Cleo Brown and that is Valaida Snow, at least in her singing style. If you like her music do not hesitate to get this CD.

Not only is this an exellent cd for those who enjoy boogie woogie swing style pianists, however her style is more sophistocated than mere boogie woogie, her singing voice is unique and refreshingly swinging. This music is great for listening pleasure, if you liek early small group fats waller style hot swing combo good time jumpin' music. If you are a swing dancer weather it be a jiver, jitterbugger or lindy hopper, you'll love dancin' to this. exellent swing/jazz/boogie woogie/good time music. timeless and HOT!