Big Band,Vol.1 - Basie, Count

Advantages: Originality, great musicianship
Disadvantages: Not that memorable, stronger Basie albums elsewhere

...When thinking through covers of famous songs the concept of this album would not be the first to spring to mind. A big band, swinging jazz rendition of some of the Beatles finest hits. In reviewing this album I can't speak for fans of the Beatles. Whilst recognising the musicianship of the Beatles they have never been part of my musical 'taste' . So I'm interested to know - does this come across as a suitable tribute, from one great artist to another? Can the music of the Beatles ever hope to remain great when reworked in this way? As for me, well I love it, in concept at least. Count Basie never fails to provide the most fulfilling big band sound. With this album I can at least try to appreciate the music of a band that otherwise I would steer clear of. Personal favourites from this collection are 'Yesterday' - a high-tempo all... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Bond and Basie, together!
Disadvantages: No vocals, no new rearrangements

....The compilation features the most recognisable Bond sounds - '007', 'James Bond Theme', 'Goldfinger', 'Dr. No's Fantasy' - with a nice balance brought through others such as 'Kingston Calypso', 'Underneath the Mango Tree', and 'Girl Trouble'. The style of jazz is clearly Basie's - a big band style with great emphasised dynamics. To my mind this suggests just how good Basie is - yes, we know the Bond tracks inside out, but here they become something else, something new, whilst still remaining the charm that made them great in the first place. If I was to express one limitation of this collection then it would focus upon the originality of the application to jazz. The tracks here are as found in the films, and no attempts have been made to rework or rearrange them in any way. This is a shame, I would trust Basie's ability to bring further life... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages:
Disadvantages:

...Another cheap punk sampler, this time from LameAss records, and as per normal with these low price saplers, is no disappointment. With 28 tracks in all bands that appear on this compilation include Good Riddance, No Fun At All, Guttermouth, Douglas, Pulley, 88 Fingers Louie, Ten Foot Pole, Gob, Buck O Nine, Big Wig, Trigger Happy and Raised Fist. Also contains 2 unreleased tracks from Less Than Jake and Astream. The only track I was disappointed with was River Fenix’s song. Having seen the band live and really enjoyed them, this song was a bit of a let down. Not as good as I remember them. This is really good cd and well worth the dirt cheap asking price. Value for money guaranteed.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful