Name: Play The Jazz Classics
Brand: Concord Jazz
SKU: 41219
Availability: OutOfStock

Play The Jazz Classics

Rating

Album: Play The Jazz Classics
#	Song Title		Time
1)	The Duke	More Info...	3:59
2)	Invitation	More Info...	9:09
3)	Autumn In New York	More Info...	7:11
4)	A Child Is Born / Our Waltz	More Info...	5:23
5)	Peace / Blue Silver	More Info...	9:16
6)	Santa Claus Blues	More Info...	3:45
7)	Pensativa	More Info...	6:57
8)	Day Dream	More Info...	5:40
9)	Sophisticated Lady	More Info...	8:49
10)	Li'l Darlin' (Don't Dream Of Anybody But Me)	More Info...	5:28

Album: Play The Jazz Classics
#	Song Title		Time
1)	The Duke	More Info...	3:59
2)	Invitation	More Info...	9:09
3)	Autumn In New York	More Info...	7:11
4)	A Child Is Born / Our Waltz	More Info...	5:23
5)	Peace / Blue Silver	More Info...	9:16
6)	Santa Claus Blues	More Info...	3:45
7)	Pensativa	More Info...	6:57
8)	Day Dream	More Info...	5:40
9)	Sophisticated Lady	More Info...	8:49
10)	Li'l Darlin' (Don't Dream Of Anybody But Me)	More Info...	5:28

Performer Notes

One of the final recordings by Rob McConnell & the Boss Brass for Concord, this pair of sessions focuses on favorite standards and timeless jazz compositions, with most of the arrangements by the leader, a fine valve trombonist to boot. Among the standards is a lively, typically Latin-flavored setting of "Invitation" and a lush treatment of "Autumn in New York" showcasing altoist John Johnson. The remainder of the disc focuses on works by jazz composers. McConnell shines in the gently swinging take of Dave Brubeck's "The Duke," while Horace Silver's "Peace" and Blue Mitchell's "Blue Silver" make up an intriguing medley. Guitarist Ed Bickert and tenorist Rick Wilkins are featured in a richly textured chart of "Pensativa," which was arranged by Wilkins. The dramatic setting of Billy Strayhorn's "Day Dream" contrasts with the playful take of Duke Ellington's "Sophisticated Lady," with the latter song briefly detouring into Thelonious Monk's "I Mean You." The recording wraps with a thoughtful salute to Count Basie by playing a deliberate rendition of Neal Hefti's "Li'l Darlin'," which became a signature tune for Basie not long after it was released. ~ Ken Dryden