Big Band Jazz - Buddy Rich

Advantages: cool, sophisticated, unique...
Disadvantages: none

...Startlingly original pianist, blending Japanese folk music with early 20th century French impressionism, and oblique yet infectious jazz sensibility echoing Thelonius Monk. She develops her classical composing skills within a jazz context. The music is a rich mixture of classical/traditional Japanese folk and European jazz influences Delicate, beautiful, diverse and inspirational music. This highly talented Japanese pianist is currently promoting original music. An eclectic mix of jazz world music and Japanese folk music.She's at the vanguard of the army of new jazz talent which is adding exciting new sounds to the jazz genre…truly an original and inspired artist who is destined for bigger things. Taeko's band delivers a distinctive sounds, some wonderful backing tracks on this album "space to be" and some great support playing... Read review

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Advantages: COMPREHENSIVE
Disadvantages: YOU'LL WANT MORE!

...Probably best know as one of The Rat Pack with fellow singers Sinatra and Dean Martin, and perhaps having to live in their shadow. Sammy Davis Jnr. was the ultimate all round entertainer - mimic, dancer, musician and singer. Jazz singer? Yes, especially on the evidence of this superbly presented 4 CD box set by Rhino Records with a set of postcards (though he was no pin-up!) and extensively researched full colour book.The tracks range from 1949, his version of 'Smile Darn Ya Smile' and closing with some live tracks from the 70's. And he worked with the best musicians and band leaders : Don Costa, Nelson Riddle,Billy May,Buddy Rich and Quincy Jones. Listen to Sammy's version of 'Lover Come Back To Me' with a Nelson Riddle arrangement in Disc 3. Superb phrasing. The poignancy of 'Who Can I Turn To' from 1965, and the Sy Oliver... Read review

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Advantages: Country Music Without Prejudice
Disadvantages: A Few Weak Tracks

...10th track of the album. The aforementioned guitar solo is a favourite among my friendship groups and we are constantly saying "Play it, my brother" to each other. It puts a smile on everyone's face just thinking about it. This track, although one of my favourites, seems to have been placed near to the end of the album, possibly because the band favour other types of songs, but for future albums they should definitely consider another swing/jazz song, it's a nice addition to the album. 11. Love Train If there's one song I would suggest you hear to convince you of just how amazing Big & Rich are, it would be Love Train. The first time you hear it you'll be uncontrollably tapping your feet, the second time you'll be singing some of the chorus, and after that you'll know every word off by heart, it's that catchy. A pumping beat, lovely... Read review

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