The Complete Atomic Basie by the Count Basie Orchestra
I heard about this album 25 years ago from my flatmate Patrick who was playing trumpet in the Warwick University big band. For some reason I didn't listen to it until very recently. Arranged by Neal Hefti, this collection of in your face, swing you to hell and back instrumentals was a massive hit in 1958 and propelled the Basie Orchestra forward for the following decade and more. And listening you can immediately understand why. It might not have been at the time, but this is now the sound most people associate with big bands. Brash, swinging, not too adventurous when it comes to harmony and just generally tap your feet fun. If you're into swing era jazz or curious about it, it's clearly a must.
Comments
Post a Comment