IM: WHUSDJ
CURRENT SHOW
Pushing the Envelope
Recorded at WOR Studios in New York, New York (1949-1950)
Miles Davis– trumpet
Mike Zwerin– trombone
Junior Collins– french horn
Bill Barber– tuba
Lee Konitz– alto saxophone
Gerry Mulligan– baritone saxophone
John Lewis– piano
Al McKibbon– bass
Max Roach– drums
Kenny Hagood– vocal
Whereas in weeks past I have reviewed some of Davis' smaller ensemble albums, this album features a larger ensemble. Some of the instrument colors really make this recording stand out, such as the robust sound of the tuba and french horn.
Kenny Hagood's vocals are also absolutely classic. They really work with that classic jazz radio sound that is so encompassed in the album. Although the recording of the album I have has been digitally remastered, the integrity of the sound of late 40's/early 50's jazz vocals is kept in-tact.
These tracks are all radio-friendly lengths, which I would surmise is intentional given the era that the original recording was released. If you're looking for some real classic Miles Davis, this album is a strong choice.
Recorded in 1960
John Coltrane- soprano and tenor saxophone
McCoy Tyner- piano
Steve Davis- bass
Elvin Jones- drums
Two blogs ago I reviewed an album of jazz arrangements by Herbie Hancock. This week I bring you an album of jazz arrangements by John Coltrane. These were in very different times, and are of very different popular tunes. The melodies are just a launching point, the vast majority of the musical content in this album is the solos derived from the tunes.
This album features a great deal of soprano sax (an instrument of which I am a huge fan), which at the time of the recording was not so common. Coltrane's exploration of the soprano sound is really profound in this album. The jazz contexts in which Coltrane paints the music are enthralling and a lot of fun to boot.
The tracks are, again like many smaller ensemble recordings, on the longer side, and extremely solo-saturated. If you're looking for a jazz adventure on some of your favorite old classics like "My Favorite Things" and "Summertime" then this album has your name all over it!