Live at Birdland [Live]

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
This two-disc set celebrates the tenth anniversary of the John Pizzarelli Trio (with his brother Martin Pizzarelli on bass and Ray Kennedy on piano). Pizzarelli is the son of legendary guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli. Taught by his father, he grew up immersed in the world of jazz, playing with Zoot Sims by the time he was twenty. He's an easily engaging singer in the manner of Nat "King" Cole, drawing on both jazz standards and well-chosen contemporary material. Recorded at the famed New York City jazz club in the autumn of 2002, Pizzarelli mixes songs old and new into one seamless whole. George and Ira Gershwin rub shoulders with James Taylor, as he takes over the songs with his own casual confidence. The smoothness of his style belies prodigious chops. His between-song patter also shows him to have all of the qualities of a well-informed host who also knows how to tell a short and funny anecdote or two. Originals by both Pizzarelli and Kennedy add further diversity to a memorable night. --David Greenberger

Live at Birdland, Music, John Pizzarelli, Ballads, Jazz, Jazz Music, Mainstream Jazz, Pop, Swing
Live at Birdland
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • a nice evening out
  • Very Appealing Live Trio Set
  • Best CD I've bought this year.
  • Hail the Return of the Great Steve Kuhn Trio
  • Solid and Stylish
Live at Birdland
Steve Kuhn Trio
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000MM0L7S
Release Date: 2007-02-20

Tracks:

  1. If I Were A Bell
  2. Jitterbug Waltz
  3. Two By Two
  4. La Plus Que Lente/Passion Flower
  5. Little Waltz
  6. Lotus Blossom
  7. Stella By Starlight
  8. Slow Hot Wind
  9. Clotilde
  10. Confirmation

Amazon.com

Even though he accompanied any number of legends during the late 1950s and '60s, Steve Kuhn doesn't have the name recognition of other jazz artists who came of age during that period. But few pianists have maintained as high a standard as he has in the mainstream trio setting. Live at Birdland, which occasions the reunion of one of his best threesomes--the bassist is Ron Carter, the drummer Al Foster, both Miles Davis alumni--is one of his most consistently engaging albums. A keen intelligence and lively wit is at work on this tuneful terrain, which ranges from the shifting tempos and tones of "Jitterbug Waltz" to the luminous reflection of Carter's "Little Waltz" (which the bassist graces with a lovely solo) to the lovely intersection between Billy Strayhorn's "Passion Flower" and a Debussy waltz, "La Plus Que Lente." There's a romping aspect to the set as well: In his late 60s, Kuhn has lost nothing in speed or agility, rendering Kenny Dorham's "Lotus Blossom" with light-fingered brilliance. If another pianist hadn't stolen the "State of the Art" tag, he certainly could hang out that shingle on this album, one of the most enjoyable in this vein in quite some time. --Lloyd Sachs

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars a nice evening out.......2007-06-28

a light deft touch marks kuhn's style. had me thinking of art tatum and oscar peterson. if i were a bell reminded me of miles' rendition on relaxin' with miles. some other jazz standards, a selection written by kenny dorham, trumpeter, two kuhn originals. one of my favorites, jitterbug waltz by fats waller, has me regretful i was not at birdland the night this was recorded, what a nice night that must had been. and you can't go wrong with al foster and ron carter, little waltz written by carter. a theme of music and flowers, two waltzes, a passion flower and a lotus blossom, in starlight, a slow hot wind blowing. this could be a presumptuous picture in other hands, kuhn, nicely, carries it off.

5 out of 5 stars Very Appealing Live Trio Set.......2007-06-05

The 10 tracks were selected by Kuhn as the best from a four-night run at Birdland. The pianist rented a Hamburg-D Steinway (his favorite) for the occasion, and makes it sparkle. As others have indicated, audio quality is outstanding, making you feel like you're sitting in the club. I probably own close to 50 CDs with Ron Carter on bass, but I've never heard him as clearly as on this recording. The music is spontaneous and inventive, and should please just about anyone. Great playing all around by these 3 classy veterans; Kuhn's virtuosity peaks on the final cut --Charlie Parker's Confirmation, a most appropriate selection for this venue.

5 out of 5 stars Best CD I've bought this year........2007-05-26

Great album! It is rare to have such musical genius and recording excellence combine on one CD. Steve Kuhn sounds like - Steve Kuhn and nobody else. Teamed with Ron Carter and Al Foster, the trio creates wonderful chemistry on the best-engineered live performance you will ever hear. Katherine Miller is credited with recording, mixing and mastering the album. If this is an example of her expertise, I am going to start looking for her name in album credits like I used to look for Rudy Van Gelder.

5 out of 5 stars Hail the Return of the Great Steve Kuhn Trio.......2007-04-12

On the 20th anniversary of their 1986 recording at the Village vanguard, the Steve Kuhn trio (featuring Ron Carter on bass and Al Foster on drums) reconvenes for two glorious nights of traditional AND adventurous jazz at Birdland. Like its predecedssor, the sessions are marked first and foremost by Kuhn's incredibly rich and distinctive tone. The Big-Ben theme that opens the first tune, "If I Were a Bell," establishes the sound right away. And like the 1986 date, the interplay between the three players is dazzling--and seemlingly effortless.

But "Live at Birdland" is not a mere re-do. If, at the time, the Village Vanguard sessions proved a high-water mark for the pianist's career, he proceeded to follow it up with an uninterrupted flow of excellent live and studio recordings that showed him stretching his vocabulary and developing his prowess in ways one had previously not expected from him. "Live at Birdland" is a masterful culmination of such experiments. He has more confidence than ever before, which enables him to solo more effectively.

"Jitterbug Waltz" was a highlight of the first record. It was a restrained, elegant classic that underwent a series of impressive tempo shifts without ever undergoing a change in mood. Here it acheives all this plus more: in the opening solo Kuhn states the theme more fully. The trio then treat it to a number of variations and tempo shifts. At roughly the seven-minute mark, there is a terribly exciting kick into another gear for several minutes, which then cools down into the closing section.

There are inevitable comparisons between the two recordings, since Kuhn decides to use a handful of the same tunes for each. Thankfully, this decision is not repetitious. And, when Kuhn does introduce new material, it startles. The final tune, a driving rendition of Parker's "Confirmation," will leave you breathless.

4 out of 5 stars Solid and Stylish.......2007-03-16

If this isn't my very favorite Steve Kuhn album, it's still very stylish, creative and lovely. It's nice to hear these vets together in live setting and Kuhn remains one of the best unheralded players. I
would still go first for his trio albums with David Finck and Billy Drummond (mostly on Reservoir I think), or some of the ECM titles for their 'experimentalism.' This one shows another side though. Very fine stuff.
Live at Birdland
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • you need this.
  • Coltrane v. Fat Freddie
  • Essential
  • THE QUARTET
  • Elvin Jones and Coltrane
Live at Birdland
John Coltrane
Manufacturer: Grp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003N8O
Release Date: 1996-11-05

Tracks:

  1. Afro-Blue
  2. I Want To Talk About You
  3. The Promise
  4. Alabama
  5. Your Lady
  6. Vilia

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars you need this........2007-02-10

one of my 3 favorite john coltrane albums. this is an incredibly soulful and spiritually moving recording. coltrane's sax playing here soars and the rythmn section rolls along like thunder beneath it all building one great throbbing sound. mcoy tyner's piano playing is superlatively inventive and a joy to experience. an absolute jazz masterpiece that all jazz lovers should own.

5 out of 5 stars Coltrane v. Fat Freddie.......2006-05-08

This might be my favorite Coltrane record. The disc adds one song not on the lp--Vilia from the operetta "The Merry Widow." I really like it all-especially "I Want To Talk About You" and "Afro-Blue."

Afro Blue is wonderful because Coltrane plays a short introduction and then the rhythm section builds up tension as their playing continues to get more and more intense. Tyner and Jones are wildmen. Then Coltrane rips and tears his way through and soars over the top of the rhythm section for a marvelous cresciendo. The music still stays within some invisible boundary so that listeners turned off by "free jazz" are still satisfied.

When I was in college and we had stereo wars, I remember playing this song incredibly loud with Elvin Jones beating those drums as if his life depended on it. My neighbor, Fat Freddie, was simply playing some forgettable rock song trying to defend against the John Coltrane Qt. It was a lost cause.

Raw power on the hoof. This recording should not be missed.

5 out of 5 stars Essential.......2006-01-19

The title is a bit misleading since only the first three cuts are 'live' recordings.
Make no mistake though:
this entire release is so, so totally LIVE!
Can you get to that?
Cop this disc and you will.
For real.
Both 'Afro Blue' and 'I Want To Talk About You' have appeared on other Coltrane and Impulse! reissues so you probably are already hip to them but in case you aren't?
Be prepared for some definita kill.
Coltrane seems to have played 'Afro Blue' at least as often (maybe more) as 'My Favorite Things' yet this version is not only the most soulful, musical, and dynamic I've heard but also the best recorded.
'I Want To Talk About You' is like the liner notes state:a straight up lesson on how to blow.
'The Promise' is (IMHO) one of two of Coltrane's most overlooked compositions and recordings.
The other, 'Your Lady' is also included here, lucky dog!
I got hip to it many,many moons ago (after I'd copped the now long out of print 2 Lp Impulse! release "John Coltrane: His Greatest Years, Volume II, which also had an edited version of 'Greensleeves', 'India', 'Chim Chim Cheree', 'Ogunde', 'Miles Mode', 'Big Nick' among others ,just full of jams...) and was just mesmerized.
To me it has the same sort of aura(?), spirituality(?),beauty(?!) as both 'Acknowledgement' (a.k.a. 'A Love Supreme Part I ') and 'My Favorite Things'.
Yet its hardly ever mentioned.
Same goes for 'Your Lady' where the listener is on some trip, traveling on some wonderful journey being led by 'Trane', propelled by Jones, carried by Garrison and guided by Tyner.
On the LP of 'Live At Birdland' it was the final cut and as such seemed to be a fitting end for an interesting, joyful excursion. But before that was/is 'Alabama', a dark,foreboding, strange cut that broke down in the middle then started up again only to come to a somewhat unexpected and fearful climax.
Its been edited to a different but similar song this time around.A complete version is on the 'Jazz Casual' DVD.
'Alabama' was inspired by a KKK church bombing that killed four young black girls Down South one Sunday morning in 1963.
'Vilia' has been added this time around. when I bought this some fifteen years ago a different cut was added since "Live At Birdland" is such a short program.
In short: this is no CD to have just to flesh out your collection or just to show how cool you are.
Whether you're a die-hard Coltrane or jazz fan or not, once you slap this rascal on...from the opening notes of 'Afro Blue' to the last fading notes of 'Your Lady' ( I honestly can't completely recall what 'Vilia' sounds like) this sucker smokes.
I swear.
And while some folk may get a bit put off by the runs 'Trane blows toward the end of 'I Want To Tslk About You' even they'll have to admit all throughout this bad motherscorcher The John Coltrane Quartet keep doing it to death!
Hope this helps

5 out of 5 stars THE QUARTET.......2006-01-10

I agree 100% with the following
A music fan
Of all the reasons I love this album, the one I would say most warrants checking it out is the piano solo on the first track, "Afro blue." Like most of the quartet's stuff, it isn't exactly one player that makes the music interesting, its just the interplay that makes these four guys seem like four different kinds of Koolaid being mixed up in a bucket. Elvin's playing on this track borders on insanity, and is my favorite piece of drumming on any jazz recording I've ever heard. this is about as hypnotic a solo as McCoy Tyner ever had in him, and it builds and builds to absolute Orgasm when John jumps in...chills will run down your spine, I promise....check it out

4 out of 5 stars Elvin Jones and Coltrane.......2005-10-28

This has always been one of my favorite Coltrane albums because of the first 2 cuts Afro Blue and I Want To Talk About You. Elvin Jones' drumming of Afro Blue is ferocious and Coltrane's playing on the second cut is outstanding. The sound recording is not that good and Tyner's piano sounds out of tune. Still, a really nice album for those two pieces.
Extended Play: Live at Birdland
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Can jazz be any better?
  • Awesome CD
  • A Really Stunning Record
  • Same good old Holland
  • Better than sex!
Extended Play: Live at Birdland
Dave Holland Quintet
Manufacturer: Ecm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000A9DYQ
Release Date: 2003-08-26

Tracks:

  1. The Balance
  2. High Wire
  3. Juggler Parade
  4. Make Believe
  5. Free For All

Tracks:

  1. Claressence
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  3. Bedouin Trail
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Amazon.com

Having convinced many people that they are the finest working group in jazz in the studio, the Dave Holland Quintet here bids to convince those who haven't seen them live--and those who have--that they're the best working group anywhere. Taking advantage of the rare opportunity to document themselves in performance in full, expansive flight--the pieces push the standard envelope at 10 and 15 and 20 minutes, across two discs--the band shows off the heady sense of interaction they have developed during their years together. Veteran bassist Holland, who drew acclaim for his first big band effort, breaks down his original themes with surgical precision, maintaining a sharp edge with driving unison lines, geometric divisions, and full-bodied solos by saxophonist Chris Potter, trombonist Robin Eubanks (who steals the show) and vibraphonist Steve Nelson. Whenever the resolutions get too neat, drummer Billy Kilson restores their power with his explosive drumming. --Lloyd Sachs

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Can jazz be any better?.......2006-12-04

After listening to this cd over and over again for quite sometime now, I'm still impressed by these 5 tremedous musicians. This is musicmaking of the highest order and anyone with a liking of jazz could safely add this to their collection. You will not be dissapointed

5 out of 5 stars Awesome CD.......2006-04-28

This CD is just an unbelievable CD. This is the best CD that Dave Holland and his crew have ever put out so far. My favorite part of the CD is Robin Eubanks and Chris Potter soloing together. The quintet has so much energy when it needs to be loud and knows when to be quiet, if you listen to jazz this is a must own. Even if you don't listen to jazz you should try buying this album, it will open up your mind to what music is really all about instead of listening to brain-numbing pop music being replayed. This album makes most pop music sound terrible. My favorite music album ever.

5 out of 5 stars A Really Stunning Record.......2006-04-05

The downside of this CD set is that it will spoil a lot of other music for you including other Dave Holland CD's. When this group first recorded "Prime Directive" in the studio, it was a really nice piece of music. In this recording, "Prime Directive" will lift you out of your chair. At least three other pieces in this set will do the same.

The musicians are in top form, the format allows for long solos, the live audience knows they are hearing something very special. Absolutely buy this music.

5 out of 5 stars Same good old Holland.......2005-12-31

I have rated this release from Dave Holland Quintet five stars like all the enthusiastic reviewers that wrote before me. In this manner I express clearly my high consideration for this quintet, this music and Dave Holland as an exceptional musician and band leader. I suggest the purchase of this double album because it's great. Nevertheless I want to express my opinion which I don't know how many of you would agree with. I mean .. ok this band is great and this Jazz too, it's a post modern free jazz that personally I find attractive and that interest me. I own almost all Dave's album. But I have to say that I can't hear all that evolution in Dave's music. If you take the music Dave played with his combo in the eighties (Steve Coleman, Robin Eubanks, Kenny Wheeler, Marvin Smitty Smith or with the other band he had with Kevin Eubanks and without Wheeler in the album "Extensions") it was more or less this same stuff. Ok it's great stuff, great Jazz (and I love it, you can be sure) but why all this enthusiasm? It seems as it was the first album with this free Holland stuff around.. Maybe some guys, some reviewers here don't know Dave's previous recordings. I don't know. Dave play this music since 20 years ago, and maybe more. You can go to "Conference of the Birds" and you can find almost this same music. This quintet is more or less on the same level (very high) of the other Holland's quintet or quartet he had in the past. And if I had to express a personal preference even if I really love what Potter played here, I still love Steve Coleman more than him, so I prefer that combo to this one. A lot of people here pointed out the (truly exceptional) drum work from Billy Kilson. He plays great, absolutly, he is really creative drummer, but Marvin Smitty Smith? What about him? Wasn't he spectacular? I don't find Kilson superior to Smith! Smith is probably one of my all time favourite drummers so... I have to say that I prefer two guys from the old DHQ to two elements which are in this band. But these are only personal preferences of course and we're talking about exceptional musicians all the way so .. and I don't want to end my review with something that seem unfair to this band. I simply wanted to say that this album didn't surprised me as it seems happened with some guys here. Dave has always had fantastic bands and musicians and simply this Dave's music has been around since "Conference..". Anyway. This is a fantastic group of musicians with one of the best band leader around (and bassist, don't forget) and they play a sort of free Jazz which is particular, but very very interesting music. I suggest this album to everyone which is into post-bop, free Jazz, maybe together with "Seeds of time", The razor's edge" and "Extensions" still from Dave's catalogue. "What goes around" it has been another fantastic, exceptional release that you can buy with confidence if you'll love "Extended play".

5 out of 5 stars Better than sex!.......2005-10-16

Damn. Just buy it. Just go right now and buy this CD. There are no words to describe this cd other than that it totally kicks ass. This is the kind of music that makes you stare dumbfounded at your stereo speakers. What? you will say. Is this real? and then you will smile, lay your head on a pillow and have the best time of your life. Dave--you and the guys are incredible.
Live at Birdland West
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • AMAZING!
  • A must to have it !
  • It doesn't get much better!
  • I love this CD
  • Burn baby burn !
Live at Birdland West
Gerald Albright
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002ISJ
Release Date: 1991-11-12

Tracks:

  1. Impressions
  2. Georgia On My Mind
  3. Softly At Sunrise
  4. Too Cool
  5. 'C Jamm' Blues
  6. Limehouse Blues
  7. Melodius Thunk
  8. Bubblehead McDaddy
  9. Boss Of Nova
  10. My One And Only Love

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars AMAZING!.......2007-02-21

Whew! Where to begin? This CD s one of my all-time favorites, not only because of Gerald Albright's amazing playing on it, but also because it gave me an all new respect for his playing ability. If you're only accustomed to his more tame smooth jazz work, consider yourself informed! Gerald tackles some jazz standards with simply amazing results. From the first track, you'll find yourself caught up in Albright's blistering technique and seemingly endless melodic ideas. Only the frst half of the CD is live, but it's great from start to finish. It even features another of my favorite artists, Kirk Whalum, on "Limehouse Blues." Kirk should raise a few eyebrows as well. Back to the album, I really can't say enough about it. This album alone has been a huge influence on my saxophone playing and it never gets old. The crown jewel of this album is undoubetdly "Georgia On My Mind." It makes this album a must-have all by itself. Gerald pulls out all the stops and constructs a gripping solo packed wth emotion and lightning speed. If this one doesn't get your hands and feet tapping, it's time to check your pulse. "C Jamm Blues" never slows down and shows off Gerald's abilty to take a simple head and turn it upside-down. It's easy to hear shades of bop in this one. Not all of the tracks are so fast-paced though. "My One And Only Love" and "Softly At Sunrise" gripping ballads to say the least, especially in the hands of a master saxophonist like Gerald Albright. No collection should be without this CD. I only wish Gerald would release another like it, but I can hardly call that criticism. Run and get this CD if you don't have it already! No collection deserves to be without it.
-Dave

5 out of 5 stars A must to have it !.......2005-09-17

This notable gave a real tour de force with sensitive mood and undeniable charisma in this well balanced CD that presents him in a live performance.
His version of Georgia in my mind remains a recent classic. Another bright themes are Softly at sunrise, Too cool and Boss of Nova.

5 out of 5 stars It doesn't get much better!.......2005-06-01

I recently purchased the Gerald Albright CD Live at Birdland West. The alto and tenor playing on it is superb. Georgia on my Mind is so soulful and passionate that listening to it made me quite emotional. Not something that happens to me that often when listening to a CD. Some of the intensisty displayed by Gerald's playing is not dissimilar to the playing of David Sanborn. I rate this as one of my top ten CD favourites. Buy it now, you won't be disappointed!

5 out of 5 stars I love this CD .......2005-02-01

This By Far is Gerald's Best work even though I love Smooth Jazz,
this is a departure that is wonderful. This CD clearly stands out from all the others. It is a bluesy soulful sound of traditional quartet style with Gerald's kick ass horn. Funny thing about this Disc is I typically don't like older style traditional stuff but someone told me that I had give this a shot, and thank GOD I did.

5 out of 5 stars Burn baby burn !.......2004-10-28

Albright has really come of age as a complete player with this exceptional live album. His version of 'Georgia on my mind' has exceptional energy yet is so well controled (love the screeming climax). Also from a technical viewpoint, I must note this man knows his defining strength - suberb tongueing ! Just watch him show it off with his extensive use of machiatos and indented phrasing. This is really a player at the top of his game. Love it !
Django Reinhardt Festival - Live at Birdland - Gypsy Swing!
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Dorado Schmitt Swings!
  • Ten Stars - This will knock your socks off
Django Reinhardt Festival - Live at Birdland - Gypsy Swing!
Dorado Schmitt , Angelo Debarre , James Carter , Babik Reinhardt , and Samson Schmitt
Manufacturer: Kind of Blue
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000E6UKRI
Release Date: 2006-03-28

Tracks:

  1. Swing gitan
  2. What is this thing called love?
  3. New york in november
  4. Minor swing
  5. Nuages
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Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Dorado Schmitt Swings!.......2007-01-10

A delightful disc for the casual jazz fan as well as the connoisseur. Gypsy swing never sounded so good. I heard the Schmitt band in, of all places, Bozeman, Montana last year: one of the tightest, rhythmically pure outfits to ever transfix an audience. And the verve comes through on this recording, made at New York City concerts in 2000 and 2002. If you appreciate driving rhythm guitar, inspired lead guitar, brilliant accordian and luminous gypsy violin, buy this CD.

5 out of 5 stars Ten Stars - This will knock your socks off.......2006-10-11

I kept hearing bits of this recording on a French jazz station but could never quite catch who the artist was. Thank God for Amazon, because here it is. If you love this type of Django-Jazz, you will be blown away. Musician friends of ours have sat in our living room listening to this CD in complete awe; the energy, musicianship, and sheer joy of playing comes through on this CD in a way that I've yet to experience. I can't say enough about it. These are superb musicians - it just doesn't get any better than this.
Vienna Nights: Live at Joe Zawinul's Birdland
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • .....Another great work from Zawinul Syndicate.....
  • An honest Masterpiece...
  • Still Smokin' at 73
  • Vienna Nights
  • This could have been great if only....
Vienna Nights: Live at Joe Zawinul's Birdland
Joe Zawinul , and The Zawinul Syndicate
Manufacturer: Bhm Productions
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  2. Forecast: Tomorrow
  3. Beyond the Sound Barrier
  4. Weather Update
  5. Industrial Zen

ASIN: B000A8AWWI
Release Date: 2005-08-23

Tracks:

  1. Y'elena
  2. Two Lines
  3. Do You Want Some Tea, Grandpa
  4. Chabiba
  5. Blue Sound/ Note 3
  6. Rooftops Of Vienne
  7. Louange
  8. East 12th Street Band

Tracks:

  1. Cafe Andalusia
  2. Borges Buenos Aires
  3. Tower Of Silence
  4. Intro To A Mighty Theme
  5. Come Sunday
  6. Three Postcards
  7. Badia
  8. Boogie Woogie Waltz

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars .....Another great work from Zawinul Syndicate............2006-08-30

For the last 7 years I've been a huge fan of Joe Zawinul and especially of Zawinul Syndicate. Seeing his work live in 3 occasions it was the three best concerts I've ever seen.

In general I don't like purchasing albums of live performances because usually they lack in sound quality and being a musician myself, i can spot minor details which would be corrected in a studio where a tune would be played as many times as required in order to be perfected.

But in this case......having heard FACES AND PLACES more than a thousand times....it is really a joy to listen to how, many of the original tunes, have progressed through the performances of the past 3 years. You can feel all the energy of a great band and the best you can do is close your eyes and imagine that you were there. Sound quality is great.

Definitely 5 stars and I recommend as a "must have" album for all Zawinul fans.

5 out of 5 stars An honest Masterpiece..........2005-11-24

This is Joe Zawinul at his all-time greatest and with an all-time greatest Live album! Mr Zawinul, "the man", still a real "unsung hero" in the world of music and American music more specifically! I feel ashamed and sickened when I see who and what the music industry in the United States does honor and celebrate so lavishly! Joe Zawinul deserves some Honors from the American music industry and it's People!!! In every way, Joe Zawinul is one of the last, if not The last, True music creator/pioneer/genius of contemporary Jazz remaining! Mr Zawinul teaches us all how to go way beyond our typical musical boundaries with finess and Cool! He's a real Master Teacher! His works/contributions to jazz have lead the way for throngs of other musicians from other musical backgrounds, world-wide, always setting the standard in jazz/fusion/cool music. I'm assuming everyone knows Zawinul wrote the biggest hits of "the times" for CannonBall and Miles, etc?!?!! This album is beautiful, hot, and covers the gambit of musical emotion! It's a Zawinul masterpiece! I can't wait to see Joe next year, as i have for the past 3 years, when he comes back through Los Angeles in 2006, the good Lord willing!!! :)

4 out of 5 stars Still Smokin' at 73.......2005-10-23

I have been a fan of Zawinul ever since I walked into the Whiskey a GoGo in 1972 and was knocked out by Weather Report for the first time. In the next 30 odd years Zawinul strived to create a world-jazz hybrid that would break down cultural differences, while preserving the distinct flavors of the individual cultures he is indebted to. This current incarnation of the Syndicate may very well be the most refined distillation yet of that ideal.

The new album actually has two different bands recorded at Zawinul's Birdland on separate dates, although bass player Linley Marthe and singer Sabine Kabongo appear in both settings. The material is mostly culled from Zawinul's last few releases. However, there are a few surprises as well.

One such surprise is the addition of the very talented drummer Karim Ziad. A morrocan born percussionist who was a collaborator with Nguyen Le on the the ground breaking world-jazz cd, 'Maghreb and Friends' (among others,)Ziad is a remarkable composer as well as drummer. His two offerings are standouts.(Check out the definitive version of 'Louange' on Magrehb-it's awesome!)He also possesses a killer singing voice.

In fact, the thing that makes this incarnation of the Syndicate stand out is the addition of all those voices. With this lineup, the group can easily take the listener on a travelogue that includes stops in north Africa,the Middle East, Spain, India and the Balkans. Not to mention Europe and the USA.

Sabine Kabongo alone can span continents with her unique vocal stylings. The album kicks off with a great version of Salif Keita's infectious afro-pop tune, 'Y'elena' (off of the Zawinul produced disc, "Amen"-a worthy addition any Zawinul collection.) Special mention must be made of her standout interpretation of "Duke Ellington's Come Sunday".

The addition of all these voices takes much of the vocal duties away from Zawinul, which, in this listener's opinion, is a good thing. He's still up to his old vocoder tricks here, but they're less prevalent than before, being more integrated into the vocal mix.

The other surprise is the re-visiting of two Weather Report tunes, Boogie Woogie Waltz and Badia. I feel that serving up Badia at a breakneck tempo did not do the tune justice, which had a more ambient and mysterious quality at it's original tempo. Boogie Woogie Waltz is very abbreviated here, and is more a nod to the tune than a full exploration.

While forging a universal music has always been the underlying principle in Zawinul's music, the addition of an imternational ensemble who can sing in their native tongue lends the material an authenticity never before achievable. Never before has Zawinul been able to realize his grand dream of making a universal music more onvincingly, a music that brings people of all cultures together, each singing together in their own unique voice.

4 out of 5 stars Vienna Nights.......2005-10-07

I was curious about the direction The Zawinul Syndicate was headed, and since I didn't get a chance to see them live at the Chicago Jazz show this past summer, I was eager to hear the group. I was not disappointed. I would recommend this CD to Zawinul's fans.

3 out of 5 stars This could have been great if only...........2005-09-25

...if only some minor changes could have been made. Karim Ziad's tunes stand out as the better tracks here. I saw Joe playing at the Blue Note in New York (2003) with Etienne M'bappe on bass who is, by far, a better musician than Linley Marthe. Anyway, they (of course) killed...every single night. Ivan Zawinul had a great mix where everyone could be heard loud and clear. On this recording, Marthe, was low in the mix and can barely be heard, so he's probably alot better than I can give him credit for. Of all the guitarists Joe has had Scott Henderson stands alone. Amit Chaterjee just doesn't compliment the music as well as Henderson does but in reality, I think a guitarist isn't needed at all in this group anyway. Sabine Kabongo has a great voice but isn't heard much on this recording, why? C'mon Joe, retire those vocoder sounds unless you're going to do something different and new with it. A couple of the slower tunes draw on a little bit too long for me in that they stop saying something and wear on, doing the same thing for rest of the time. One could fit a whole other tune in it's place with a different texture to break up the monotony. The drummer is good but no Paco Sery. I don't think Joe will find another rhythym section like Paco and Etienne for a while - if ever again. I hope the "Midnight Jam" CD which is past due for release turns out better than this one. Having said all of this, Joe's music is the best stuff out there that grooves and moves but is, yet, still accessible to non-musicians while not falling into that "smooth jazz" genre which can't disappear off the face of the planet soon enough.
Dancemania 99: Live At Birdland [LIVE]
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Finally
  • Tito Puente was the greatest of them all
  • Great live album by " El Rey Del Timbal"
  • Tito-we will miss you..
  • One of the best CDs of the year
Dancemania 99: Live At Birdland [LIVE]
Tito Puente
Manufacturer: Rmm Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Mambo Birdland
  2. King of Kings: The Very Best of Tito Puente
  3. Oye Como Va: The Dance Collection
  4. Dance Mania, Vol. 2
  5. Party with Puente!

ASIN: B000009RG5
Release Date: 1998-08-25

Tracks:

  1. Lullaby Of Birdland
  2. Mambo Inn
  3. Cayuco
  4. Complicacion
  5. Mambo En Blues
  6. Babarabatiri
  7. A Donde Vas
  8. Flauta Y Timbal
  9. Mas Bajo
  10. Cua Cua

Amazon.com

It has been 40 years since Tito's first Dancemania album captured the explosion of Latin sound from his band, who were then packing in the dancers at New York's Palladium. This live album recaptures that feel, using a bigger band than the original, but the same arrangements. The major difference is that this time the soloists have more space in which to stretch out, and they take full advantage of the opportunity. But at the same time, this is Latin jazz that never forgets it was made for dancing. The rhythms percolate and boil, the horns reach for the sky, and everybody just wants to mambo. Not many people get a chance to remake and remodel their past this way; even fewer could do it this well. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Finally.......2001-12-12

I was out of luck trying to find a live Tito set with good quality. Finally, this came along. Plays some of his more classic tunes, and they sound tight! Great vocalist Frankie Morales featured. Tito even turns out a solo on track 8 that will amaze you, especially since he's in his mid 70s and still jams better than most percussionists out there on timbales.

5 out of 5 stars Tito Puente was the greatest of them all.......2001-10-31

It was about 1953, that I first heard of Tito Puente and his orchestra. It was in an LP with many other latin orchestras. In it there was a bolero "Si me dis ques' ce si" or something. Perhaps you have heard it! It was very very romantic. Tito Puente was the percussionist and the vibes player. Vocalist was Vicentico Valdez.
Later, I studied civil engineering in Graz-Austria where Tito Puente, Perez Prado, Xavier Cugat, Noro Morales and all the great latin bands were practically unknown. I bought the LP "Cha Cha Cha for Lovers", a TICO recording, as well as two 45rpm's of RCA Victor.
After many years I started again listening to his evergreen music. His music reminds me of my youth.
Tito Puente was very popular in Greece, which he visited about three times.Unfortunately, I could not meet him and tell him that he had a very good friend without knowing it.
I was very sorry to hear that he died
Nicky Malakis

5 out of 5 stars Great live album by " El Rey Del Timbal".......2001-06-07

This is the first ever cd that I got of Tito Puente not having known who he was before I got this recording I'm sure glad my parents told me about his music. The reason the cd is so great is because it brings you back to the Palladium days music. With songs like Cua Cua, Mambo Inn and Lullaby Of Birdland to name a few. Plus featring Dave Valentin on flute on the song Flauta Y Timbal that is why I think this cd is worth your money. So if you are just getting into latin jazz or want something great to listen to then this cd is for you.

5 out of 5 stars Tito-we will miss you.........2000-07-29

This is the last recording from Tito before he left us. It is everything you'd expect from a great Tito Puente recording, and live. Amazing new versions of older material, still true to the feel of the long-ago Palladium days. If you have even the slightest interest in Latin Jazz, or latin music in general, this is well worth your while. A guaranteed classic. Buy it and groove to the finest.

5 out of 5 stars One of the best CDs of the year.......1999-12-18

This is an outstanding recording that shows that Puente is still a master. The arrangements are tight, the soloists sizzle, and every track makes one want to dance.
The Django Reinhardt NY Festival: Live at Birdland
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Django lives!
  • Fabulous Tribute
  • An amazing album
  • A lot of emotion here
The Django Reinhardt NY Festival: Live at Birdland
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005OMHE
Release Date: 2001-10-02

Tracks:

  1. The Sheik Of Araby - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  2. I Can't Believe You're In Love With Me - Regina Carter/Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr/Joe Ascione
  3. Swing 49 - Bireli Lagrene/Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  4. Bei Dir War Es Immer So Schon (With You It Was So Very Beautiful) - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  5. It Don't Mean A Thing - Regina Carter/Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr/Joe Ascione
  6. Nuages - Frank Vignola/Jimmy Rosenberg/Babik Reinhardt/Bucky Pizzarelli/Florin Niculescu/Joe Ascione
  7. Turkish Delights - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr/Joe Ascione
  8. Angelo's Song - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  9. Gypsymania - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  10. I Can't Give You Anything But Love - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Jon Burr
  11. Une Histoire Simple - Babik Reinhardt/Florin Niculescu/Pete Malinverni/Leroy Williams/Jon Burr
  12. Limehouse Blues - Jimmy Rosenberg/Frank Vignola/Bucky Pizzarelli/Jon Burr

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Django lives!.......2005-06-21

I bought this album by mistake. I thought it is Django's record. When I came home I found out that this is a tribute album. And a very good one two. Jimmy Rosenberg is great guitarist. Django would be proud of him, as he would be of his son Babik who is also playing here. The other guitarist are Bucky Pizzarelli, Frank Vignola and Birelli Lagrene joined by Jon Burr, who was Stephane Grappelli's bassist for the last decade of his life, Regina Carter or Florin Niculescu (violin) occasionaly, Joe Ascione and pianist Pete Malinverni. Songs are recorded live. I wish I would be here when they played.

5 out of 5 stars Fabulous Tribute.......2002-08-29

If you love Django, you can never get enough. And though tribute albums are not everyone's cup of tea, this one is exceptionally easy to digest. It goes down exceptionally well. The playing is strong, intense, and emotional throughout. Highlights abound. Especially moving is Jimmy Rosenberg's version of "With You It Was So Beautiful."

5 out of 5 stars An amazing album.......2001-12-05

I was lucky enough to be in the audience on one of the four evenings this festival took place. All I can say is that the guitar work of Jimmy Rosenberg is incredible, and to hear him play live is a uniquely exciting experience. Frank V. plays with a level of refinement that only a handfull of American jazz guitarists have achieved, and all together, the music on this album will just blow you away.

Some high points on the album include: The Sheik of Araby, Turkish Delights, and one of the most exciting renditions of Limehouse Blues you'll ever hear, complete with shouts whistles from the crowd.

At this point, I just have my fingers crossed that they'll make a CD of the 2001 festival as well: Angelo Debarre and Dorado Schmitt were incredible, and George Benson (one of the greatest jazz guitarists in jazz history), was kind enough to get up from his table between dinner and dessert to play a few songs with the group!

In the meantime, get yourself a copy of this album and enjoy.

5 out of 5 stars A lot of emotion here.......2001-12-01

Being a fan of Reinhardt it's nice to here these young players playing the hell out of these tunes. From the begining of "The sheik of Araby" to the last note of "Limestone Blues" There isn't a wasted note. I only wish there was more Regina Carter (violin), her playing gives me the shivers. The crowd is very much into these performances. They yell and hoot after every great solo.Django's son Babik also shows up to put in a few tasty electric guitar solos. This album should be a classic, you don't get performances like this that often.And when you do you want to treasure them. Buy this album and treasure it.
Live at Birdland
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Live at Birdland
    John Pizzarelli
    Manufacturer: Telarc
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
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    1. After Hours

    ASIN: B000093NNI
    Release Date: 2003-05-27

    Tracks:

    1. Introduction
    2. Just You, Just Me
    3. Frim Fram Sauce
    4. This Song Is You
    5. Isn't It a Pity?
    6. Rhode Island (Intro)
    7. Rhode Island
    8. Ray Kennedy: Library of Congress Story
    9. Gospel Truth
    10. Ray Kennedy: Dizzy Gillespie Story
    11. Tea for Tatum
    12. James Taylor Intro, Pt. 1
    13. Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight
    14. James Taylor Intro, Pt. 2
    15. Mean Old Man
    16. Manhattan
    17. Rosemary Clooney Story
    18. Moonlight Becomes You
    19. Final (Intro)
    20. Will You Still Be Mine?

    Tracks:

    1. Introduction
    2. Three Little Words
    3. They Can't Take That Away from Me
    4. Oh, How My Heart Beats for You
    5. Day I Found You (The Pollywog Song)
    6. Polliwog Story
    7. It's Only a Paper Moon
    8. Stompin' at the Savoy
    9. Better Run Before It's Spring
    10. Grover Kemble Story
    11. Headed Out to Vera's - Grover Kemble, John Pizzarelli Trio
    12. Medley: Baby, Ain't I Good to You/Baby, Baby All the Time/Midnight ...
    13. I Like Jersey Best (Intro)
    14. I Like Jersey Best
    15. My Castle's Rockin' - Grover Kemble, John Pizzarelli Trio
    16. Baby Just Come Home to Me
    Live at Birdland
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • best buy
    • whats not to like?
    • If you've ever seen him live, don't bother with this cd
    • John Pizzarelli the way he should be heard... LIVE
    • Pizzarelli At His Best
    Live at Birdland
    John Pizzarelli
    Manufacturer: Telarc
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    ASIN: B00008RV22
    Release Date: 2003-04-22

    Tracks:

    1. Introduction
    2. Just You, Just Me
    3. The Frim Fram Sauce
    4. This Song Is You
    5. Isn't It A Pity?
    6. Rhode Island Intro
    7. Rhode Island
    8. Ray Kennedy Library Of Congress Story
    9. Gospel Truth
    10. Ray Kennedy Dizzy Gillespie Story
    11. Tea For Tatum
    12. James Taylor Intro 1
    13. Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight
    14. James Taylor Intro 2
    15. Mean Old Man
    16. Manhattan
    17. Rosemary Clooney Story
    18. Moonlight Becomes You
    19. Final Intro
    20. WIll You Still Be Mine?

    Tracks:

    1. Introduction
    2. Three Little Words
    3. They Can't Take That Away From Me
    4. Oh, How My Heart Beats For You
    5. The Day I Found You
    6. Polliwog Story
    7. It's Only A Paper Moon
    8. Stompin' At The Savoy
    9. Better Fun Before It's Spring
    10. Grover Kemble Story
    11. Headed Out To Vegas
    12. Medley: Gee Baby, Ain't I Good To You/Baby, Baby All The Time/Midnight Blue
    13. I Like Jersey Best Intro
    14. I Like Jersey Best
    15. My Castle's Rockin'
    16. Baby Just Come Home To Me

    Amazon.com

    This two-disc set celebrates the tenth anniversary of the John Pizzarelli Trio (with his brother Martin Pizzarelli on bass and Ray Kennedy on piano). Pizzarelli is the son of legendary guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli. Taught by his father, he grew up immersed in the world of jazz, playing with Zoot Sims by the time he was twenty. He's an easily engaging singer in the manner of Nat "King" Cole, drawing on both jazz standards and well-chosen contemporary material. Recorded at the famed New York City jazz club in the autumn of 2002, Pizzarelli mixes songs old and new into one seamless whole. George and Ira Gershwin rub shoulders with James Taylor, as he takes over the songs with his own casual confidence. The smoothness of his style belies prodigious chops. His between-song patter also shows him to have all of the qualities of a well-informed host who also knows how to tell a short and funny anecdote or two. Originals by both Pizzarelli and Kennedy add further diversity to a memorable night. --David Greenberger

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars best buy.......2005-09-10

    this has got to be my favourite album,great arrangements and very entertaining.This is one of the best trios around,Ray Kennedy is an astounding piano player, and Martin Pizzarelli is one of the most solid bass players around.Please someone tell me why John Pizzarelli isn`t a household name, he`s a rare talent. J.P swings through an assortment of standards plus his own compositions i.e the ballad "better run before it`s spring" and the "polliwog song".Both these songs are delightful and beautifully played.John`s vocals and jazz guitar are superb throughout this double album.Buy at least two albums just in case you wear one out with continuous use.

    5 out of 5 stars whats not to like?.......2004-07-18

    this cd contains terrific live versions of past "hits" of this tremendous trio(oh, how my heart beats for you, three little words) and new arrangements i had never heard before(a touching "Manhattan", isn't it a pity and just you,just me). it is full of spontanaiety , humor and musicianship. these are NOT rehashes of previous cd's. they are to me what this trio is all about live. a must have!

    2 out of 5 stars If you've ever seen him live, don't bother with this cd.......2003-10-26

    It's a fine cd if you've never seen John Pizzarelli live. But if you have, there's no reason to bother with this. Half the songs are the same ones he was doing live 5 years ago. The best song on the cd, I Like Jersey Best, is an exact duplicate of the arrangement on PS Mr. Cole. There's just too many other excellent cd's out there to invest in this one. As far as this cd goes, he's done it all before. Many times.

    5 out of 5 stars John Pizzarelli the way he should be heard... LIVE.......2003-10-21

    It's no secret. I am a fan of John Pizzarelli. He has the guitar skills of his father combined with a comfortable (though not strong)singing voice. His interaction with the audience captures a mood and personality which makes the music jump out of your speakers and into your hearts. Like Harry Chapin, John can tell a story and keep you interested. It was wonderful to hear about his run in at the Library of Congress. But with that you get great music, and when he invites NJ local Grover Kemble (who?) onto the stage to join him, that castle starts Rockin'!
    Other highlights include the original compostion of Ray Kennedy "Gospel Truth", and an extended version of the J.P.T. Standard "I Like Jersey Best" - with more versions than you've ever heard before ("In my mind. I'm going to New Jersey")...

    I would encourage everyone to check out this album... Better yet, buy it!

    5 out of 5 stars Pizzarelli At His Best.......2003-07-24

    The latest from John Pizzarelli is pure joy. These 2 discs capture his incredible talent on the guitar, his captivating voice and his incredible sense of humor. He's as hip and quick on his feet as they come. Someone should sign him up for his own TV show -- he's a real gem. The selections are just great --he chose some of his best songs along with standards that are sensational. Ray Kennedy never sounded better -- especially on "The Gospel Truth" -- which takes your breath away. Martin Pizarelli gives the whole thing a grounding, beautiful background. And Grover Kemble swings like crazy with John on "This Castle's Rockin'. Wow. Congratulations. This is one of my favorite cds of all time.

    Music:

    1. Live in Chicago [Live]
    2. May the Music Never End
    3. Mirrors [Import]
    4. Mood Indigo
    5. Moonlight Sinatra [Import]
    6. Need My Sugar
    7. Over the Years
    8. Peggy at Basin Street East [Live]
    9. People Behave Like Ballads
    10. Platinum & Gold: The MGM Years

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