This CD combines two full LPs featuring Bucky Pizzarelli that were among the first original recordings produced for Stash. The first is a fun-filled duet with bassist Slam Stewart, which obviously focuses on the veteran's technique of simultaneously bowing his instrument and singing in octave unison with it, but Pizzarelli's ability to add his own bassline on his seven-string electric guitar and his complementary melodious playing contribute to the value of the date. Music from several decades is heard, including "I Got ...
Read More
This CD combines two full LPs featuring Bucky Pizzarelli that were among the first original recordings produced for Stash. The first is a fun-filled duet with bassist Slam Stewart, which obviously focuses on the veteran's technique of simultaneously bowing his instrument and singing in octave unison with it, but Pizzarelli's ability to add his own bassline on his seven-string electric guitar and his complementary melodious playing contribute to the value of the date. Music from several decades is heard, including "I Got Rhythm," "It's Only a Paper Moon," and two Erroll Garner compositions ("That's My Kick" and "Nightwind,"), as well as an original written by vibraphonist Peter Appleyard (who isn't present on the date but had worked together with both men under Benny Goodman in the early '70s) and a jointly improvised blues. The only dud is Leon Russell's "Masquerade," which wears out its welcome rather quickly. The meeting of Pizzarelli with Red Norvo was just as logical and comes off with flying colors. Adding pianist Russ Kassoff and bassist Jerry Bruno, this date sticks pretty much to classic standards, including a swinging "Just Friends" and romps through "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "The Jitterbug Waltz." Pizzarelli composed the tasty "Blues for Red" especially for the session. Norvo's softer vibes technique is much more subtle than that of most players of his instrument, but it gives him a readily identifiable sound. Since Stash ceased operations in the 1990s, this out of print and highly recommended CD will grow increasingly difficult to locate. ~ Ken Dryden, Rovi
Read Less
Add this copy of Rhythm Encounters With Red Norvo and Slam Stewart to cart. $7.32, very good condition, Sold by Books From California rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Simi Valley, CA, UNITED STATES, published 1996 by Jazz Classics.
