JOE
HENDERSON – THE STANDARD JOE
There's
nothing standard about this set – as Joe Henderson always brings something
special to a recording session – especially at this point in his career! The
album has a wonderful format – Joe's unique tenor tone set up beautifully
alongside the bass of Rufus Reid and drums of Al Foster – no piano or other
horns at all, just an open, swinging combo with a really great sense of energy!
Joe's bold lead really sets the tone for most numbers – and a few tracks are
compositions that Henderson recorded famously early in his career, recast here
with a whole new sound and heightened sense of maturity. Titles include
"Blues In F (aka In N Out)", "Blue Bossa", "Inner
Urge", "Body & Soul", and "Take The A Train". Also
features a bonus alternate of "Body & Soul". ~ Dusty Groove
CATERINA
ZAPPONI - ROMANTICA
Zapponi
was born and raised in Rome, the daughter of celebrated screenwriter Bernardino
Zapponi, a collaborator and longtime friend of Federico Fellini, and Françoise
Rambert, a French-born chanteuse who instilled in Caterina her love of the
French repertoire. Growing up amidst her parents’ collaborators and friends
helped introduce Zapponi to jazz and the American Songbook while fueling her
desire to move to the United States, which she did upon receiving a scholarship
from Berklee College of Music. Here she presents a multilingual collection of jazz, cabaret and international standards, Romantica
showcases Zapponi's unique sensibility, at once measured and emotional,
cinematic, and especially fluent in the nuanced interplay of American jazz and
European classics. A mesmerizing soundscape that exudes old-world charm. Featuring
Monty Alexander, Bucky Pizzarelli, Frank Vignola, Etienne Charles and Martin
Pizzarelli.
LOUIS
ARMSTRONG – LOUIS ARMSTRONG AND HIS FRIENDS
Louis
Armstrong hits the Flying Dutchman label – and unlocks a whole new spiritual
side of his talents – a mode that's quite different than some of his crossover
pop of the 60s! The style here has a bit of righteous elements in the lyrics,
and lots of spiritual jazz in the backings – with full arrangements from Oliver
Nelson – who heads up a dream lineup that includes Billy Harper on tenor, and
either Chico Hamilton or Pretty Purdie on drums! Even more amazing is a guest
appearance from Leon Thomas – who sings on a version of "The Creator Has A
Master Plan". Other tunes are just as hip – and include "The Black
Cat Has 9 Lives", "His Father Wore Long Hair", "Give Peace
A Chance", and "We Shall Overcome". Must be heard to be believed!
~ Dusty Groove
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