Customer Reviews

Sound of Jazz: Memorable 57 Broadcast

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I think this is an excellent and probably unique recording for those who love jazz. But - this is not the original telecast, as its sub-title - "The Memorable 1957 Telecast featuring...." seems to hint. This is a recording made some days before and featuring a number of alternative personnel. Where were Monk and Mulligan? The owner of the original video tape has a responsibility to put out a companion to this CD, to compliment it, warts and all - like Allen's and Rushing's monologues, the big bands ragged starts, and Allen's quacking at the beginning of his two pieces. The video must surely contain one of the most poignant little solos by Lester Young, and not his sorry statements on this CD.

Nostalgic, romantic, bittersweet, enduring, Triumphant! The meaning of Life is expressed vocally and musically by these artist. The passion of Billie Holiday. The bittersweet storytelling in a phrase by Lester Young. The power of Coleman Hawkins. The fire of Roy Eldridge. The sensual romanticism of Ben Webster. The way your heart is lifted with wings when you hear them. Music such as this speaks to the silent voice in your soul, the unutterable voice, that pains or Life may have stifled but can never deafen. Clap hands, souls sing, foot stomp, smiles/eyes beam.

I was fortunate to actually view the live blackand white television performance of this great-est of all time jam session by the greatest jazzmusicians of our time. The video tape of thisevent is available but unfortunately the qualityis poor. However, it is well worth the price tosee and hear these "cats" perform.