Search - Charlie Mariano :: It's Standard Time 1

Charlie Returns To Straight Ahead Jazz

jazz lover since 1960 | Tampa, Fl. and Franklin, NC | 07/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was sorry to hear of Charlie Mariano's recent death. I remember the pleasure of hearing him live in Boston in 1966. I think his solos on the Charles Mingus masterpiece "Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" will stand as one of the great interpretations in jazz recorded history. He has followed a path away from the straight ahead jazz for most of his subsequent years. This recording, as well as his other recent recordings "It's Standard Time, Vol. 2 " and "Deep In A Dream" return to the roots of straight ahead jazz. This CD, and the other 2, have become some of my favorite recordings. As the title suggests, Charlie plays old standards and plays them beautifully. The opening song, Stella By Starlight, knocked me out. Charlie's sensitive and quavering sound is well suited to standards. One of great underrated pianists, Tete Montoliu accompanies Charlie. The European bass player and drummer are just fine. Enjoy!"