Many of Al Jolson's greatest performances were on the soundtracks to the seven movies he made as a star for Warner Brothers pictures in the late '20s and early '30s. His performances in these early talkies were live and, as a result, this is the closest link we have to the electric performances Al brought to Broadway during his peak years of performing. The 23 selections included here give the best possible overview of Jolson's movie career in its early stages. Al Jolson in a Plantation Act , a one-reel short Jolson made ...
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Many of Al Jolson's greatest performances were on the soundtracks to the seven movies he made as a star for Warner Brothers pictures in the late '20s and early '30s. His performances in these early talkies were live and, as a result, this is the closest link we have to the electric performances Al brought to Broadway during his peak years of performing. The 23 selections included here give the best possible overview of Jolson's movie career in its early stages. Al Jolson in a Plantation Act , a one-reel short Jolson made before The Jazz Singer, is heard for the first time on this compilation and his performances on "April Showers" and "Rock-A-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody" are stunning. The true believer moment would probably be "Toot, Toot, Tootsie!" from The Jazz Singer . Bursting at the seams with energy, it reveals Jolson's myriad talents, all set to a driving performance. Even Jolson's directions to his bandleader on this track ('give it to 'em hard and heavy') presages rock terminology by a good 40 years -- Al Jolson was America's first high-energy entertainer and this proves it. Jolie's way with a ballad are well served by his galvanic reading of "It All Depends on You." Comparing these tracks with the latter-day recordings is a minor revelation as the energy on these tracks is palpable, revealing Al as a performer with plenty of gas left in the tank. Hard to imagine that this performing dynamo was already 40 when the first of these tracks were cut and all of 50 by his final appearance in his last Warner Bros. starring role. This is an unbelievably fine collection, making it an essential purchase for Jolson fans the world over. ~ Cub Koda, Rovi
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Seller's Description:
Fair. This is a USED ITEM. The CD may have minor SCUFFS or SCRATCHES but is expected to function properly. The packaging has some damage which may include CRACKS, CHIPS or SCRATCHES. Thank you for supporting Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara County in our mission to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families through education, skills training, and the power of employment. OUR MEDIA HAS NOT BEEN TESTED. WE CLEAN OUR DISK FOR MINOR SCRACTHES.
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All our items include the original disc(s) in the original case. Your purchase funds free job training and education in the greater Seattle area. Thank you for supporting Goodwill's nonprofit mission!
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Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!