Search - Bud Powell :: Swingin With Bud

Great Bebop

Michael G. Mcneill | Rochester, NY United States | 06/04/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This record isn't my favorite document of Bud Powell's work, but nevertheless it is worth listening to, as Mr. Powell is one of the greatest jazz pianists. George Duvivier contributes a few tasteful bass solos (with equally tasteful comping by Powell), as well as solid rhythm-section work with Art Taylor all the way through. Mr. Powell seems a little shaky with the tempo on "Salt Peanuts," but that is the only problem I find on this record. A standout to my ear is the performance of "In the Blue of the Evening." I also enjoyed Barney Kessel's "Swedish Pastry" and Mr. Powell's several compositions ("Birdland Blues," "Oblivion," and "Midway"). Mr. Powell deserves much greater recognition as a composer and as a group player, and we all need to listen to his formidable right-hand lines."

The Best of Bud Powell

Forrest T. Akers | Richmond, Virginia United States | 06/22/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I guess I am biased because this is the album that introduced me to Bud Powell, and that I grew up on. My stepmother had it, and everytime I would visit her I would play it. This is in the early '70's. I played it so much that she finally gave it to me. (I have LPM-1507 on RCA Victor.) I just wore it out. She's gone now, so the disc has sentimental value as well. Since that time I have acquired numerous Bud Powell records and CD'S, I also have the book "Dance of the Infidels: A Portrait of Bud Powell" but I always come back to "Swingin' With Bud". I feel this occasion is so important because it captures all aspects of "The Man". Without categoriing his music as bebop, because categorization deemphasizes the true value of the music, plus the creators of the music rejected the term, one is able to appreciate the music in its entirety. ...I think it represents the "whole", the "complete", Earl "Bud" Powell."