Customer Reviews

State Street Sweet

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Wow. If you are a Gerald Wilson fan, which you must be, then this CD is definitely for you. When I picked up the CD and listened to the very first song, I knew it would be my next "in the CD player constantly" CD. And I was right! From "Lakeshore Drive" - which makes me think of New York City on a rainy night, my favorite city, time period of day, and weather - to the smoldering 'Femme Fatale'-imaging "Come Back to Sorrento" - this CD is absolutely wonderful. Every track displays Gerald Wilson at his very best.
I love his past work AND recent work, but this is my favorite so far. Of course, I'm also a big fan of New York, New Sound, but even THIS surpasses that one!
Listen to his music. Can't you imagine a movie scene or yourself in some other life? Gerald's music can do that to you. Make you imagine something wonderful. His music? Captivating, imaginative, exquisite. The man? Timeless, unbeatable, and most of all, unforgettable.

For lovers of big band jazz, and there are plenty of you out there, there is nothing better than the Gerald Wilson Orchestra.
Since his beginning with Jimmie Lunceford in the late 30s, Wilson has provided the world with innumerous great jazz tunes and arrangements that withstand time. The title track instantly sends home the message that this is a serious jazz CD with its gorgeous reed harmonies playing a melody that will surely stay in your mind and haunt you daily. Check out the great instrumental execution by Gerald's band on Lighthouse Drive! My favorites on this CD (and it is hard to have one) are the companion pieces "The Feather" and "The Serpent" written after Gerald's visit to the ruins of Teotihuacan outside of Mexico City. Refering to the feathered serpent spirit of Aztec and other indigenous societies in Mexico Quetzalcoatl these compositions ooze spirit. Get it now!!!

There is no mistaking the sound of a Gerald Wilson arrangement. His use of brass is unique and lovely to hear. If you are a fan, you should have this in your collection. This CD seems to be telling a story as you move from cut to cut. Great listening.