Search - Joe Sullivan :: Joe Sullivan 1933 1941

Strong Piano

B. D. Tutt | London, UK. | 03/31/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Joe Sullivan was the leading pianist in the white Chicago jazz tradition, with a distinctive style synthesising elements of the Harlem pianists and Earl Hines, and with a strong percussive approach which often concealled a surprising lyricism.This CD featues some of his best known recordings. Tracks 1 - 8 and 21 - 24 are excellent solos, including such originals as the Waller / Johnson influenced "Gin Mill Blues" the swinging "My Little Pride and Joy", and his driving showpiece, "Little Rock Getaway". Tracks 9 - 16 feature his successful if rather uninspired Cafe Society Orchestra from 1940. Tracks 17 - 20 feature Sullivan in a trio with the unique Pee Wee Russell, whose bronchial rasping clarinet style suited Sullivan well.The solo tracks are essential for lovers of mainstream piano jazz: Sullivan never quite equalled these performances."

Not earthshakingly original, but still very nice

Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 03/17/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Pianist Joe Sullivan was a long-time favored accompanist of both Bing Crosby and Bing's brother, Bob. Sullivan led his own combos from time to time, and was given studio time by the great John Hammond to record a few sweet sides on Columbia and Parlophone. This is the first volume of Sullivan's work done under his own name; the best recordings on here are piano solos that show his gracefulness and melodic warmth (and a heavy debt to Fats Waller). The tracks recorded with a full band get a little more raucous and less subtle. Still, all in all, this is a mighty fine set. Worth checking out."