Count Basie Orchestra - Basic Basie [CD]

Cat. no: 0209745MSW
Format: CD
Barcode: 4029759097457
Release Date: 25 Feb 2022
Genre: Jazz

Recorded at the famous Universal Studios in Chicago in 1969, this is the first of two classic Basie recordings for MPS

There are at least three aspects that place Basic Basie on the 'special album' list: lots of the Orchestra's standards arranged by the inimitable Chico O'Farrell, more Basie on piano, and some great tenor solos by one Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. The band comes out hot and swinging on Jesse Stone's "Idaho", with a bouncy piano solo, and "Lockjaw" pours out a scalding half chorus starting at the bridge. "Blues in My Heart" has a laid- back Basie and Davis, and on "I Don't Stand a Chance" Davis blows a warm, breathy ballad. "Red Roses", "Moonglow", and "Ma He's Making Eyes at Me" are all beautifully arranged at a medium tempo, with Basie and Davis the soloists. The funky "M- Squad" features Eric Dixon's pristine flute solo, the leisurely "Sweet Lorraine" drips warm-honeyed notes, while Fats Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin" deservedly features Basie's piano. "Don't Worry" gives the listener a sweet taste of Basie band stalwart Marshall Royal's alto, and on "As Long as I Live" Basie takes on the melody with a short aside from "Lockjaw". A title that fits hand- in- glove to Basie and band, "I've Got The World On A String" closes out the session.

Twelve concise, perfectly sculpted miniatures (only two pieces are over three minutes) - a great addition to any big band collection.

CD Tracks: Idaho / Blues In My Heart / I Don't Stand A Ghost Of A Chance With You / Red Roses For A Blue Lady / Moonglow / Ma, He’s Making Eyes At Me / M - Squad / Sweet Lorraine / Ain’t Misbehavin’ / Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me / As Long As I Live / I’ve Got The World On A String