Chet Baker — Late Night Jazz (with Bonus Tracks)

Late Night Jazz is a quintessential Chet Baker album that perfectly encapsulates the mellow, introspective quality of his music during the later years of his career. Released in 1988, this collection highlights Baker's unique ability to convey deep emotion through his trumpet playing and vocal style, set against a backdrop of understated accompaniment.

This recording showcases a more intimate side of Baker, continuing his exploration of the trumpet-guitar duo format that he had honed during his time in Europe. The album features the extraordinary guitarist Philip Catherine, whose subtle and nuanced playing complements Baker’s airy tones beautifully. Notably, this session is devoid of percussion, relying solely on the piano of Egil Kapstad and the bass of Terje Venaas to provide a delicate foundation for Baker's expressive melodies.

The tracks on Late Night Jazz are slightly shorter than some of Baker's previous works, but they make up for it with a selection of intriguing and less commonly heard songs, reflecting his ability to breathe new life into familiar standards.

Track Highlights

"The Bird From Kapingamarangi" - An enchanting opening track that showcases Baker's lyrical trumpet style and Catherine's gentle guitar work.

"Alice In Wonderland" - A playful reinterpretation of the classic, where Baker’s interpretation adds a dreamy quality to the well-known melody.

"Children's Waltz" - A tender piece that captures a sense of innocence and nostalgia, highlighted by Baker's emotive playing.

"The Ballad Of Buttersmile" - An evocative ballad that allows Baker to explore deeper emotional territory with his trumpet.

"How High The Moon" - A jazz standard transformed by Baker's unique phrasing and the lush interplay with his accompanying musicians.

"Blamann Blamann" - A captivating composition that features intricate melodies and harmonies, showcasing the chemistry between the musicians.

"Love For Sale" - A classic tune reimagined with Baker's signature touch, filled with longing and tenderness.

This edition also includes three bonus alternate takes from the sessions, providing further insight into the creative process behind the album.

Chet Baker (1929-1988) was an iconic American jazz trumpeter and vocalist known for his cool, laid-back style and lyrical approach to music. Born in Yale, Oklahoma, Baker began playing the trumpet in high school and quickly gained prominence in the West Coast jazz scene during the 1950s. He became a leading figure in the "cool jazz" movement, characterized by its smooth melodies and relaxed tempos.

Baker's early career was marked by collaborations with renowned musicians, including Charlie Parker and Gerry Mulligan. His work with Mulligan's quartet produced some of his most celebrated recordings, including the classic Chet Baker & Gerry Mulligan album. Baker's soft, haunting trumpet sound and his delicate vocal style made him a standout performer, earning him a devoted following.

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Baker faced personal challenges, including struggles with addiction, which impacted his career. Despite these setbacks, he continued to produce music, often returning to Europe where he found a renewed sense of artistic freedom. His later albums, including Late Night Jazz, reflect a mature, introspective style, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist.

Chet Baker’s influence on jazz is profound, and his recordings remain timeless treasures for jazz enthusiasts. Late Night Jazz serves as a testament to his enduring artistry, encapsulating the essence of his sound and the emotions he conveyed through his music. This CD is a perfect addition for anyone looking to explore the depth and beauty of Baker's later work.

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