Search - Jay Mcshann :: Solos & Duets

Jay McShann on Sackville

John C. Graham | toronto, ontario Canada | 01/10/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This two cd set reissues three lp's that were originally released close to thirty years ago. A Tribute To Fats Waller and Kansas City Hustle, the solo records, were recorded at RCA studios on June 20th and 21st, 1978. Tuxedo Junction, the duets with bassist Don Thompson, were recorded at McClear Place studio on August 24th, 1980. There are also two previously unissued vocal takes of "Baby won't you please come home" and "Keep your hands off her". The sound quality for all tracks is excellent and the music has easily withstood the test of time.



These recordings highlight McShann's extraordinary ability to present familiar material with the decorative touches of a true improviser. The songs, many of them drenched in the blues, are given new life through his imaginative interpretations. His creative abilities, from this time period, seem to know no bounds and are generously displayed on each track of these cd's.



Jay McShann enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a bandleader and later, in his golden years, as a solo headliner. These recordings are from the beginning of those golden years when he was in full command of his enormous talents. There isn't a better document of Jay McShann-the jazz pianist-than this one. Enthusiastically recommended."