Search - Stan Kenton :: Best of

Great songs from two decades...

Jon Warshawsky | San Diego, CA USA | 02/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an extremely listenable, energetic (for the most part) collection that begins with some of earlier upbeat pieces, with Kenton's hallmark screeching trumpets and catchy riffs. The album maintains a chronology, so that by the time you hear Stompin' at the Savoy you can tell the band has evolved in its style. Kenton explores a lot of different beats and uses first-rate soloists (all brass and saxophones)which often overshadow his own piano.Personal favorites on this CD are Cole Porter's 'Lover', Ray Wetzel's 'Intermission Riff' and Kenton's own 'Artistry Jumps'. If you like loud jazz, you will enjoy this album. Recording quality is about par for 1940s and 1950s -- meaning if you like big stereo sound you may be disappointed. I have found that some of the better monaural recordings (and Capitol Records was excellent) are just as satisfying or better than some of the overblown stereo of the late 1950s/early 1960s.Recommended."

These are not the best renditions Kenton is famous for...

Dirk-David Todd | Echo Park, CA USA | 09/17/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A PRETTY GOOD CD, however, most of the songs are from 1945 to 47, and the renditions are not as good as the Kenton works of
the 1950's, e.g., The Peanut Vendor, etc.David"

Great sampling of Kenton

William McClenton | Florida | 02/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"From Kenton's early days through his "Cuban Fire" era, this recording offers a wonderful sampling of Kenton's best known works. From "Malaguena" to "23..82", you can hear how Don Ellis developed his sense of time, and how other future composers developed their talents as well. --A great overall album for anyone who is interested in Kenton on any level"