Search - Charlie Parker :: Montreal (1953)

Canadian bird

arpard fazakas | 01/29/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Two nights of Bird with a house band and another guest American saxophonist at a club in Montreal, toward the end of his career. Apparently he was reasonably sober (alcohol-wise) on these dates as his playing is very sure and clean. He almost sounds a little mechanical at times as he races through a stock selection of his favorite tunes, but the sheer virtuosity is breathtaking. He seems almost oblivious of the accompaniment, which is fortunate in that they're not of the highest caliber. The rendition of Embraceable You is particularly stunning. A few snippets of conversation with the MC add to the ambience. The recording quality is good. Anyone who likes Bird and modern jazz will enjoy this offering."