40 Original Satchmo Classics - Louis Armstrong

Advantages: Some tracks (Nat "King" Cole, Louis Armstrong) are priceless
Disadvantages: Jimmy Durante? Celine Dion? Blecch!

..., there are some wonderful songs in this CD. I absolutely get goosebumps when I hear the mellow, soothing voice of Nat "King" Cole as he sings Hoagy Carmichael's reflective "Stardust" -- a reverie about separation and longing. I also enjoy Louis Armstrong's rendition of "A Kiss To Build a Dream On," Carly Simon's "In the Wee Hours of the Morning" and Harry Connick's rendition of producer/composer Shaiman's "A Wink and a Smile." The mix of happy, sad and memory-triggering songs reflects (to me, anyway) the highs and lows of any romantic affair, with all the passions, smiles and tears involved. Slightly less thrilling were several tracks, including Jimmy Durante's covers of "As Time Goes By" and "Make Someone Happy." Maybe it's because I'm just too used to listening to Dooley Wilson's classic version as heard in Casablanca, or maybe it's just... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Amazing contrast of voices,
Disadvantages: Some sonic quality is lost due to the age of the recording

...This CD is a brilliant stepping-stone into the Jazz world. The instantly recognisable voice of Louis Armstrong is familiarly heart warming, Louis stood next to the sensational Ella, make a fine pair. The strong vocals are supported by the excellent band, with great instrumental links keeping the listener on the edge of their seat. The intensity and coarseness of Mr. Armstrong's voice compels the audience to wish for the next scat solo or the next parade of incredible human talent that is Louis. Of course the same can be said of the sassy Ms. Fitzgerald who can sustain these high levels of aptitude. I recommend this CD to any budding music fan who wishes to broaden their Musical horizons! HAPPY LISTENING! BY, JAKE HEMMING... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: If you like covers you will love this.
Disadvantages: If you don't like covers you will hate this.

...with his guitar on one knee just chilling. Song time 5 minutes 30 seconds. So a long song. 9) We Have All The Time In The World (Copa Cabana Version) Well I think most of you will know this one. Performed by you guessed it Louis Armstrong. I have never liked a cover of this song that was in till I heard this. Personally I think the do this song justice. Song time, 2 minutes 40 seconds. 10) Coney Island Girl Schmoove Version Another original song by the criminals. But not one that I really like. Now the reason I don't like it is that it sounds like very like the doors. Now don't get me wrong I do like the doors but I just think that the style does not suit this band. Song time, 3 minutes. 11) I'll Be Seeing You This is also a cover. This one I really do like but I am not keen on the original. Which was performed by Bing... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful