One of George Shearing’s signature pieces, a classic illustration of the trademark Shearing sound. While he moved on to solo work and vocal accompanyment, anyone who grew up with Shearing grew up with the sound of his quintet.
Originally trained as a classical pianist, Sergio Mendes was drawn to jazz and ultimately to Brazilian music with its Bossa Nova beat and soft pop stylings. His music is timeless and his name and Brasil ’66 have become household words worldwide and across generations.
Recorded 1971 in Tivoli by The Jazz Giants: Dizzy Gillespie, trumpet; Thelonius Monk, piano; Kai Winding, trombone; Sonny Stitt, alto and tenor saxes; Al McKibbon, bass and Art Blakey, drums. It just doesn’t get better than that!
A little adventure into Jazz/R&B with two incredible organists, Jimmy Smith and Jimmy McGriff. Also featuring Herman Riley (sax), Carl Lockett (guitar), and James Levy (drums). Recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival, July 1992.
The legendary Ben Webster and Charlie Shavers at the Cafe Montmarte in Copenhagen, 1971. It is said a young accompanying musician once asked Ben, “Why do you always cry while you’re playing?” “I play so beautiful” was the response!
To join our Mark Of Jazz Facebook discussion group.
For more posts and to leave comments on Twitter.
As well as follow and download the Jazz Scene Podcast on iTunes, too!