Search - Ellis Marsalis :: Whistle Stop

The master at the top of his game.

07/22/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are so many reasons to recommend buying this CD, such as the fact that this disc introduces us to Jason Marsalis, or the fact that this is one of the least obnoxious performances Branford Marsalis has ever recorded. But the only thing that matters here is Ellis, the venerable old master of the jazz piano. Here, he is released from the moldy old covers that appear all too frequently on his other works. Here are the tunes that he helped compose with Mr. Black in the 60's. As Ellis himself was rediscovered, so too has he rediscovered his own ability to be daring and really put out a recording with bite. The absoluste BEST thing about this recording, however, is the last song, "When We First Met", a piano solo. This is a song for which words were written, but never recorded. The fascinating thing is that none are NEEDED. You actually seem to hear the lyrics as Ellis plays the song. Amazing. It's like remembering and loving an old classic, but one that you've never heard before. We have so much to thank Mr. Marsalis for... let us all hope he continues to produce such vital music in the future."

Just a great CD

01/09/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have owned this CD for a while, and I find myself returning to it over and over again. It's my favorite companion. . . the CD I choose when I need company while I write, or think, or rest. If you love Ellis Marsalis (and who doesn't?), you've got a headstart in loving this CD. But beyond that, it's a nice selection of songs arranged with a nod to the past and a look at today, all in the right order. Some CDs have some good songs; some CDs are just great compilations, and this one is in the latter category."