Showing posts with label Antti Sarpila. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Antti Sarpila. Show all posts

Sunday, March 13, 2022

Allan Vaché, Antti Sarpila, Ken Peplowski - Summit Meeting


Size: 181,3 MB
Time: 78:47
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1995
Styles: Clarinet And Saxophone Jazz
Art: Front

1. Original Dixieland One Step (6:29)
2. What Can I Say After I Say I'm Sorry (3:29)
3. Air Mail Special (4:50)
4. These Foolish Things (4:15)
5. Cherry (9:53)
6. Royal Garden Blues (5:25)
7. You'll Always Be Mine (3:09)
8. Nuages (3:23)
9. A Shanty In Old Shanty Town (4:48)
10. Yellow Dog Blues (5:30)
11. Who's Sorry Now (8:05)
12. I've Started All Over Again (4:48)
13. Blues # 3 (7:57)
14. Bye Bye Blues (6:41)

The day before this CD was made, clarinetists Allan Vache and Antti Sarpila recorded the enjoyable Swing Is Here in Hamburg, Germany. Ken Peplowski, himself a notable clarinetist, was in town and was hoping to sit in, so another session was arranged for the following day. Pianist Mark Shane, bassist Len Skeat and drummer Joe Ascione keep the proceedings moving while the three clarinetists play many heated passages. Sarpila doubles on soprano, while Peplowski contributes some tenor, but it is when all three are matching wits on clarinet that this set approaches the classic level. Highlights of the Dixieland/swing material include "Original Dixieland One Step," "Air Mail Special," "Royal Garden Blues" and "Bye Bye Blues." A clarinet fanatic's dream.~Scott Yanowhttps://www.allmusic.com/album/summit-meeting-mw0000066372

Personnel: Allan Vache (clarinet); Antti Sarpila (soprano saxophone, clarinet); Ken Peplowski (tenor saxophone, clarinet); Mark Shane (piano); Len Skeat (bass); Joe Ascione (drums)

Summit Meeting

Sunday, February 6, 2022

Antti Sarpila - Encore Live : The Buck Clayton Legacy

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 77:12
Size: 177,2 MB
Art: Front

( 7:37)  1. All The Cats Join In
( 5:16)  2. Buckin' The Blues
( 5:32)  3. Toot Sweet
( 7:49)  4. Robbins Nest
( 6:23)  5. Professor Jazz
( 3:35)  6. Fiesta In Blue
(11:10)  7. Jumpin' At The Woodside
( 6:48)  8. Blue And Sentimental
( 6:51)  9. Sabine's Jazz Arena
( 5:13) 10. Lean Baby
(10:52) 11. Rock-A-Bye Basie

The arrangements, the compositions, and the joy of Buck Clayton's playing are celebrated during this live concert. The music looks back toward both the trumpeter's work as a member of Count Basie's Orchestra and his legendary Columbia jam sessions of the 1950s. The interesting mainstream group mixes together a few lesser-known Europeans  trombonist Jerry Tilitz, Antti Sarpila on reeds, pianist Brian Dee and bassist Len Skeat with trumpeter/arranger Randy Sandke (who does a superb job of taking Clayton's place), the tenors of Harry Allan and Danny Moss, baritonist Scott Robinson and drummer Butch Miles. The music really swings and has among its many highlights "All the Cats Join In," "Robbins Nest," "Jumpin' at the Woodside" and "Rock-A-Bye Basie." ~ Scott Yanow  http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-buck-clayton-legacy-encore-live-mw0000045775

Personnel: Randy Sandke (trumpet); Antti Sarpila (clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Danny Moss, Harry Allen (tenor saxophone); Scott Robinson (baritone saxophone); Jerry Tilitz (trombone); Brian Dee (piano); Butch Miles (drums).

Sunday, July 25, 2021

Swedish Swing Society - Runnin' Wild in New York (Remastered)

Styles: Jazz, Swing
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 73:42
Size: 170,2 MB
Art: Front

(5:20) 1. Runnin' Wild
(4:45) 2. It's the Talk of the Town
(5:09) 3. Stompin' At The Savoy
(5:04) 4. Memories of You
(5:14) 5. Three Little Words
(5:20) 6. Night And Day
(5:48) 7. Blue Lou
(3:43) 8. The Man I Love
(6:14) 9. The Sheik Of Araby
(4:52) 10. Sweet Lorraine
(4:41) 11. After You've Gone
(5:24) 12. It Had To Be You
(6:54) 13. Stardust
(5:06) 14. Chinatown My Chinatown

In 1935 Benny Goodman put together the famous trio with Teddy Wilson at the piano and Gene Krupa on the drums. The first recordings resulted in an immense success. The concept of letting the left hand of the pianist work together with the bassdrum, in the absense of a bassplayer, and Goodmans joyful ease created an airy sound that brought fourth the elegant technique of the musicians and an ecceptional swingexperience. In 1936 vibraphonist Lionel Hampton was added to the group. This quartet became the model for the popular Swedish group that Ove Lind and Lars Erstrand put together. Ulf Johansson Werre overtook the pianostool from Bengt Hallberg and later Bjorn Sjodin inherited the drummer position from Ronnie Gardiner.

After the decease of Ove Lind Antti Sarpila joined the group. Now, after the decease of Lars Erstrand the group continues as the original, chambermusical trio with which Goodman set style in 1935. SWEDISH SWING SOCIETY (SSS) cares and develops this inheritance in a way that has given response among audiences and critics over the world. ”World class” is often mentioned when referring to the appearances of the group, for example at Carnegie Hall in New York at a celebration of the National Day of Sweden. ”The interplay between Ulf, Antti and Bjorn is brilliant.It sounds so easy and natural when these musicians make their elegant and swinging versions that it puts You in a great mood.
”Translated By Google http://www.bjorntjanst.com/SwedishSwingSociety.html

Personnel: Antti Sarpila, clarinet; Ulf Johansson Werre, piano; Lars Erstrand, vibraphone; Björn Sjödin, drums

Runnin' Wild in New York

Monday, July 12, 2021

Bob Wilber, Antti Sarpila - Moments Like This

Styles: Clarinet And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 75:24
Size: 175,4 MB
Art: Front

(4:14) 1. Rent Party Blues
(5:13) 2. Naughty Phideaux
(3:38) 3. Moonsongs
(4:25) 4. See See Rider
(3:03) 5. Alligator Flop
(3:30) 6. Estrellita
(3:43) 7. It's a sin to tell a lie
(4:11) 8. Magic Nights
(4:13) 9. Limehouse Blues
(4:12) 10. Lester's Bounce
(3:09) 11. Fascinating Rhythm
(3:34) 12. Reverie
(3:18) 13. The Snake Charmer
(3:56) 14. These Foolish Things
(4:55) 15. I Want A Little Girl
(3:49) 16. Tango à la Bechet
(3:30) 17. Baby ain't I good to you
(3:41) 18. Moments Like This
(4:59) 19. Vampin' Miss Georgia

Throughout his long career, saxophonist Bob Wilber has done a lot to keep classic jazz alive. A bit misplaced (most jazz players of his generation were much more interested in bop and hard bop), Wilber (along with Kenny Davern, Ralph Sutton, and Dick Wellstood) was one of the few in his age group to stick to pre-bop music. Influenced on soprano, clarinet, and alto by Sidney Bechet, Benny Goodman, and Johnny Hodges, respectively, Wilber has long had his own sound on each of his instruments. In high school he formed a band that included Wellstood, and as a teenager he sat in at Jimmy Ryan's club in New York. Early on he became Sidney Bechet's protégé and led his own young group, the Wildcats, with whom he released several early albums, including 1949's Bob Wilbur and His Jazz Band and 1951's Young Men with Horns.

The close association with the dominant Bechet led to a bit of a personality crisis in the 1950s as Wilber sought to find his own voice. He studied with Lennie Tristano and formed the Six, a group that tried to modernize early jazz, a sound heard on 1955's The Six. When that ended, he played Dixieland with Eddie Condon, and in 1957 joined Bobby Hackett's band for a year. Wilber freelanced throughout the 1960s, working with Ralph Sutton and releasing such albums as Blowin' the Blues Away (with trumpeter Clark Terry) and New Clarinet in Town. In 1968 he became a founding member of the World's Greatest Jazz Band alongside Bob Haggart and Yank Lawson. A year later he paid tribute to one of his idols with The Music of Hoagy Carmichael.

Along with his continued work with the World's Greatest Jazz Band, in 1973 he formed Soprano Summit with clarinetist Kenny Davern. One of the top swing-oriented groups of the decade, Soprano Summit released a handful of well-regarded efforts, including 1974's Soprano Summit I, and played numerous live concerts. Also during the '70s, Wilber teamed up with his wife, singer Pug Horton, in Bechet Legacy (which also featured either Glenn Zottola or Randy Sandke on trumpet). The '80s were a fruitful decade for Wilber, who performed often with a bevy of traditional and repertory ensembles, releasing such albums as 1981's Music of King Oliver, 1982's Ode to Bechet, and 1983's Reflections. He also suppled the soundtrack to Francis Ford Coppola's 1920s Harlem-based drama The Cotton Club, and in 1987 authored his frank memoirs, Music Was Not Enough. The following year, he led a band at Carnegie Hall to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Benny Goodman's famous concert.

In 1990, Wilber paired again with Davern for Summit Reunion, and subsequently followed up with several of his own efforts, including 1994's Dancing on a Rainbow, 1995's Bean: Bob Wilber's Tribute to Coleman Hawkins, and 1996's Nostalgia on the Arbors label. He then honored legendary arranger Fletcher Henderson with 2000's Fletcher Henderson's Unrecorded Arrangements for Benny Goodman, and joined vibraphonist Dany Doritz for 2002's Memories of You: Lionel and Benny. He continued to tour and record over the next several years, appearing with Soprano Summit and releasing 2010's Bob Wilber Is Here! with Bucky Pizzarelli, Antti Sarpila, Nikki Parrott, and others. He then joined fellow reed players Sarpila and Pieter Meijers for 2012's The Three Amigos, and the following year joined pianist Bill Charlap's trio and clarinetist Anat Cohen at the Newport Jazz Festival.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bob-wilber-mn0000074476/biography

Antti Sarpila (clarinet and saxophones - composing and arranging) is one of the few internationally known jazz musicians from Finland. Although based in Helsinki, he performs extensively as a solo artist all over the world.

Personnel: Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Bob Wilber; Clarinet, Soprano Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone – Antti Sarpila; Piano – Ulf Johansson; Bass – Sture Åkerberg; Drums – Ronnie Gardiner; Vocals, Trombone – Ulf Johansson (tracks: 17)

Moments Like This

Friday, November 27, 2020

Antti Sarpila - Let's Swing: Plays a Tribute to the Benny Goodman Small Groups

Styles: Clarinet Jazz, Swing
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:43
Size: 156,9 MB
Art: Front

(3:30) 1. Let's Swing
(4:35) 2. What Can I Say Dear
(5:50) 3. Stealin' Apples - Live
(3:17) 4. He's Funny That Way
(4:57) 5. Avalon
(2:45) 6. Meet Me Tonight in Dreamland
(3:53) 7. My Gal Sal
(5:32) 8. Rose Room
(6:47) 9. Song of the Wanderer
(3:21) 10. You'll Always Be Mine
(4:31) 11. Somebody Stole My Gal
(3:20) 12. Old Spinning Wheel
(3:41) 13. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
(4:52) 14. I've Got the Heartful of Music
(3:10) 15. Japanese Sandman
(3:34) 16. I Want to Be Happy

Antti Sarpila pays tribute to the king of swing and his chamber jazz combos. There are five previously unreleased tracks and a compilation of the best tracks by Antti Sarpila in the Goodman vein. Apart from Antti's band, there are some tracks featuring vibraphone player Lars Erstrand doing his rendition of Lionel Hampton and pianist Ulf Johansson Werre with his Teddy Wilsonish touch. http://www.anttisarpila.com/en/recordings?start=10

Let's Swing

Monday, December 21, 2015

Bob Wilber - Bob Wilber Is Here!

Styles: Clarinet And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:50
Size: 145,0 MB
Art: Front

(5:34)  1. Vampin' Miss Georgia
(4:41)  2. Only the Lonely
(2:43)  3. Lou's Blues
(4:52)  4. Dreamy
(4:27)  5. World Is Waiting for the Sunrise
(3:35)  6. Bob Wilber Is Here!
(4:03)  7. Yes, We Have No Bananas
(3:22)  8. Bean
(3:30)  9. Love In Bloom
(4:54) 10. Flower Is A Lovesome Thing
(4:57) 11. Land of the Midnight Sun
(5:21) 12. Across The Pond
(3:59) 13. Johnny Was There
(2:48) 14. Jewel of the Cotswolds
(3:57) 15. Bye Bye Blues

Bob Wilber was ahead of his time when he chose the soprano sax as his primary instrument back in the 1940s, absorbing everything he could from Sidney Bechet before the master saxophonist departed to live and work in Europe. Fast forward to 2010 and Wilber is sharing his knowledge of the instrument with young players Antti Sarpila and Nik Payton, though all three men double on clarinet during the record date as well. 

Starting with Wilber's "Vampin' Miss Georgia" (a thinly disguised "Sweet Georgia Brown"), it's clear that the three players are having a lot of fun in a rare opportunity to all play soprano together. But the two younger men also have a great sound on tenor, as heard in "Bean" (Wilber's swinging tribute to Coleman Hawkins), which also features Jeff Barnhart's lively striding piano. The three reedmen switch to clarinet for a brisk treatment of "The World Is Waiting for the Sunrise," which also features brief solos by Barnhart, bassist Nicki Parrott, and the veteran guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli. This is a thoroughly enjoyable outing that is easily recommended. ~ Ken Dryden  http://www.allmusic.com/album/bob-wilber-is-here!-mw0002040666

Personnel: Bob Wilber (clarinet, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone); Bucky Pizzarelli (guitar); Anne Barnhart (flute); Nik Payton (clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Antti Sarpila (clarinet, soprano saxophone); Jeff Barnhart (piano); Ed Metz, Jr. (drums); Nicki Parrott (bass).

Bob Wilber Is Here!

Friday, December 11, 2015

The New York Allstars - Hey Ba-Ba-Re-Bop!!: The New York Allstars Play Lionel Hampton

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:28
Size: 145.3 MB
Styles: Swing, Vibraphone jazz
Year: 1999
Art: Front

[ 9:27] 1. Air Mail Special
[ 6:47] 2. Moonglow
[ 6:01] 3. Ring Dem Bells
[ 3:49] 4. Indian Summer
[ 5:23] 5. Hey! Ba-Ba-Re-Bop
[ 3:15] 6. A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square
[ 7:07] 7. Avalon
[ 7:35] 8. Rose Room
[ 3:59] 9. Body And Soul
[10:01] 10. Flying Home

Bass – Dave Green; Clarinet – Antti Sarpila; Drums – Ed Metz Jr.; Leader – Randy Sandke; Piano – Thilo Wagner; Rhythm Guitar – James Chirillo; Tenor Saxophone – Antti Sarpila; Trombone – Roy Williams; Trumpet – Randy Sandke; Vibraphone – Lars Erstrand.

Trumpeter Randy Sandke heads a strong group of American and European swing/mainstream players on a set of ten songs associated with vibraphonist/bandleader Lionel Hampton. Sandke, trombonist Roy Williams, and Antti Sarpila (on clarinet and saxophones) make for a solid front line, while vibraphonist Lars Erstrand sometimes comes close to duplicating the sound of Hampton. The octet romps through such songs as "Air Mail Special," "Hey Ba-Ba-Re-Bop," "Avalon," and of course an extended "Flying Home," along with some other swing standards and ballads. The music is as fun and infectious as one would expect, with Sandke in particular in fine form. ~Scott Yanow

Hey Ba-Ba-Re-Bop: The New York Allstars Play Lionel Hampton

Friday, September 25, 2015

Bob Wilber - What Swing Is All About

Styles: Clarinet And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 77:54
Size: 178,9 MB
Art: Front

(4:36)  1. Smiles
(4:13)  2. Tickle Toe
(6:08)  3. Someday You'll Be Sorry
(4:18)  4. I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues
(5:16)  5. I Want To Be Happy
(3:42)  6. You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To
(5:40)  7. Basic Jump
(5:42)  8. Back Home Again In Indiana
(3:56)  9. Love Comes Along Once in a Lifetime
(6:06) 10. The Song Is You
(3:09) 11. Feeling I'm Falling
(4:22) 12. I've Got A Crush On You / You Do Something To Me
(3:44) 13. Bernfest '96
(3:28) 14. This Is New
(4:06) 15. Goody, Goody
(3:52) 16. Billie's Bounce
(5:27) 17. Doggin' Around

This is simple stuff, plain and unassuming. Two high horns, with a broad arsenal, trade nimbly over a bright trio. The group was formed for a hotel job in 1984 and plays to this day. The repertoire is expected: old standards and basic originals. The album has no surprises, save one: this old music sounds fresher than a lot of modern bands. This is what swing is all about. The horns step together on “Smiles”, a parallel theme with plenty of warmth. Wilber shouts high, a clarinet purity on soprano; his former student Antti Sarpila is pure Lester. Pleasant but light; a gentle stroll in the park. It picks up with “Tickle Toe”: Antti is more urgent but still Presidential; Wilber, on clarinet, bends tone and shows grit while staying sweet. The exchanges are tough, Joe Ascione fending off both horns at once. It all works, right down to Basie’s Morse code at the end. The fans agree. 

“I Got a Right” brings in Pug Horton, for the first of any vocals. Befitting the tune, she is low and weary, with a charming vibrato. Mark Shane is understated, light rolls and Ellington trills. Wilber takes the straight soprano (less sweet than his curved model); it’s the match to Antti’s clarinet. Pug is brighter on “Nice to Come Home To”; less vibrato and more heat. Her notes stay creamy even down low – not many can say that. Wilber’s solo is busy and happy; Antti’s is almost its equal. “Basiec Jump” is a fun turn on “Undecided”; Antti stretches a bit with nice sandpaper tone. Shane strides right (he played a Basie tribute at this club a few months later); Wilber has little space, but does he use it! “Indiana” starts at a crawl: Pug muses as the piano flows, as slow as the Wabash River. She stops; the band starts. Antti dances high, while Wilber rolls a bit lower. Ascione gets a soft solo; hear the horns jab behind him. It’s quite a display, and the crowd agrees.

“Feeling I’m Falling” is a gem, a Gershwin tune I wish I knew before this. The clarinets walk together. Wilber keeps to theme, going high with bent notes; Antti likes trills. A lazy day of a song: it may be simple, but always welcome when it comes. Pug comes back for “I’ve Got a Crush on You” (hear Wilber on the lovely verse.) On the final word “you” it becomes “You Do Something to Me” – like that romance becomes passion. Next is “Bernfest ‘96” (named for a festival Wilber played), but don’t be fooled  it’s a classic swinger that could have been written in ’36. The tune is a winner, like the clarinet-tenor blend. There’s little here but the theme, but you don’t need anything else. “Goody Goody” is a group vocal: besides Pug, you hear Wilber, and maybe some of the crowd. Bob’s high swirling is his best solo; Antti groans a bit with a nice rumpled tone. “Billie’s Bounce” isn’t just Charlie Parker here it’s a bossa! And it swings. 

The soprano is slow, some bop moves but without the tension. Antti calls on Lester again, with great results. Shane hammers hard with tremolos: he’s old and modern at once. And “Doggin’ Around” is another “Undecided”, this one from the Count. Wilber is bluesier than normal, with high tumbles. Antti gets tough, quoting “Broadway” and beginning to strut. I like it; the crowd does not disagree. Shane strides again; his best effort. The long ending should be savored but I could say that for the whole album. ~AAJ  Staff  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/what-swing-is-all-about-bob-wilber-review-by-aaj-staff.php

Personnel: Bob Wilber (clarinet, soprano saxophone); Pug Horton (vocals); Antti Sarpila (clarinet, tenor saxophone); Mark Shane (piano); Phil Flanigan (bass instrument); Joe Ascione (drums).

What Swing Is All About

Friday, November 7, 2014

Bob Wilber - Bob Wilber & The Three Amigos

Styles: Clarinet And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2012
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 70:41
Size: 162,8 MB
Art: Front

(5:01)  1. Limehouse Blues
(6:10)  2. Tampa Bay Trot
(2:58)  3. Jubilee Stomp
(4:00)  4. Passport to Paradise
(4:17)  5. Keepin' Out of Mischief Now
(5:56)  6. Black and Tan Fantasy
(6:32)  7. Bernfest '96
(4:31)  8. The Mooche
(5:59)  9. Avalon
(4:19) 10. In an Old Deserted Ballroom
(3:42) 11. Basie-issimo
(4:46) 12. Blue Horizon
(3:08) 13. The Best Things in Life Are Free
(3:56) 14. Willow Weep for Me
(5:20) 15. Isotope Rag

The Three Amigos is not a table-hopping Mariachi band, but an ever-cruising all-star jazz combo, so dubbed during a gig in Mexican waters when they first played together. Don’t let the Alaskan wolf jackets throw you off, they are mementos from another cruise destination, the 49th state. If luxurious cruise ships come to mind, you’ve got the picture. This particular journey took the Amigos to a Florida studio where the eight world-class Amigos led by Bob Wilber strut their stuff, whether as soloists or tight ensemble players, backed by a swinging rhythm section, fresh from the Third Arbors Invitational Jazz Party. As these notes are written, the Amigos are getting ready to gear up for a round trip Jazzdagen -sponsored cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico. The Alaskan wolf jackets will be held in reserve. http://www.arborsrecords.com/recordtemplate.html?ProductID=19424

Personnel: Bob Wilber-soprano sax, clarinet; Pieter Meijers-soprano sax, clarinet; Antti Sarpila-soprano sax, clarinet; Rossano Sportiello-piano; Bucky Pizzarelli-guitar; John Cocuzzi-vibes; Nicki Parrott-bass; Eddie Metz Jr-drums

Monday, November 3, 2014

Bob Wilber - Bean: Bob Wilber's Tribute To Coleman Hawkins

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 59:57
Size: 137.2 MB
Styles: Mainstream jazz
Year: 2006
Art: Front

[4:21] 1. The Man I Love
[3:03] 2. Netcha's Dream
[4:03] 3. Crazy Rhythm
[2:45] 4. Buh-De-Daht
[4:28] 5. Low Flame
[3:24] 6. Avalon
[2:56] 7. Stuffy
[3:10] 8. Romanza
[3:35] 9. Spotlite
[2:35] 10. Just A Gigolo
[4:02] 11. Tenderly
[3:09] 12. Pick-Up Boys
[4:34] 13. Bean N' Soul
[2:52] 14. Stumpy
[3:23] 15. When Day Is Done
[3:14] 16. Feedin' The Bean
[4:16] 17. Flight Of The Hawk

Bob Wilber, Harry Allen, Antti Sarpila, Tommy Whittle, tenor saxophones ; Mick Pyne, piano ; Dave Cliff, guitar ; Dave Green, bass ; Clark Tracey, drums.

Throughout his long career, Bob Wilber has done a lot to keep classic jazz alive. A bit misplaced (most jazz players of his generation were much more interested in bop and hard bop), Wilber (along with Kenny Davern, Ralph Sutton, and Dick Wellstood) was one of the few in his age group to stick to pre-bop music. In high school he formed a band that included Wellstood, and as a teenager he sat in at Jimmy Ryan's club in New York. Early on he became Sidney Bechet's protégé and led his own young group, the Wildcats (with whom he made his recording debut). The close association with the dominant Bechet led to a bit of a personality crisis in the 1950s as Wilber sought to find his own voice. He studied with Lennie Tristano and formed the Six, a group that tried to modernize early jazz. When that ended, he played Dixieland with Eddie Condon, and in 1957 joined Bobby Hackett's band for a year. Wilber freelanced throughout the 1960s, in 1968 became a founding member of the World's Greatest Jazz Band, and in 1973 he formed Soprano Summit with Kenny Davern, one of the top swing-oriented groups of the decade. A few years later the band broke up and Wilber teamed up with his wife, singer Pug Horton, in Bechet Legacy (which also featured either Glenn Zottola or Randy Sandke on trumpet).

In addition, Bob Wilber has worked with the New York Jazz Repertory Company, released music on his own Bodeswell label, wrote the authentic soundtrack to the movie The Cotton Club (1984), in 1988 led a band at Carnegie Hall to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Benny Goodman's famous concert, and authored his frank memoirs, Music Was Not Enough. Influenced on soprano, clarinet, and alto by respectively Bechet, Goodman, and Johnny Hodges, Wilber has long had his own sound on each of his instruments. He recorded frequently through the years for many labels, including Arbors in the '90s and 2000s. ~ bio by Scott Yanow

Bean: Bob Wilber's Tribute To Coleman Hawkins

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Antti Sarpila - We'd Like New York...in June!

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 71:44
Size: 165,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:13)  1. How About You
(3:09)  2. From This Moment On
(5:09)  3. Everything Happens to Me
(5:05)  4. Moonlight on Germont
(4:40)  5. Lesterity
(3:41)  6. When It's Sleepy Time Down South
(2:46)  7. Whispers in the Dark
(2:19)  8. Revolutionary Jump
(3:29)  9. Unforgettable
(4:17) 10. 'Deed I Do
(5:31) 11. I'm Beginning to See the Light
(4:00) 12. Swing ala Chopin
(5:31) 13. Summer Night
(4:03) 14. Just One of Those Things
(3:54) 15. Cheek to Cheek
(5:45) 16. Love Walked In
(3:04) 17. Dearest (You're the Nearset to My Heart)

Finnish multi-reed player Antti Sarpila has developed a strong following within a few short years following his 2001 debut CD as a leader. Equally talented on tenor sax, clarinet, and soprano sax, Sarpila gives this set a truly international flavor, with Italian pianist Rossano Sportiello, Australian bassist Nicki Parrott, and American drummer Ed Metz, Jr.. Opening on tenor in a easygoing take of "How About You?" he showcases each player in turn. The "I Got Rhythm"-derived "Lesterity" is an obvious salute to Lester Young and would be perfect for any jam session. He revisits the long forgotten "Whispers in the Dark" delving in playful exchanges with Sportiello with Metz whispering with his brushwork. His engaging "'Deed I Do" showcases Parrott playing both pizzicato and arco solos. Sarpila's upbeat "Swing à la Chopin" is based on one of Fryderyk Chopin's best-loved waltzes. Fans of mainstream jazz will be delighted with this enjoyable CD. ~ Ken Dryden  http://www.allmusic.com/album/wed-like-new-york-in-june!-mw0000809517.

Personnel: Antti Sarpila (clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Antti Sarpila (saxophone); Rossano Sportiello (piano); Nicki Parrott (bass guitar); Ed Metz, Jr. (drums).

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Antti Sarpila - Jazz Party

Styles: Swing
Year: 1994
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 78:10
Size: 179,4 MB
Art: Front

( 8:39)  1. China Boy
( 6:02)  2. Ballin' The Jack
( 4:55)  3. Till There Was You
( 2:20)  4. Handful Of Keys
( 6:22)  5. When You're Smiling
( 4:19)  6. Savoy Blues
( 4:50)  7. Runnin' Wild
( 3:48)  8. Harmonica Boogie
( 7:34)  9. I Can't Give You Anything But Love
( 6:00) 10. Royal Garden Blues
( 5:56) 11. Sweet Georgia Brown
( 5:20) 12. That's A Plenty
(12:00) 13. I Got Rythm

Antti Sarpila (born 1964) is one of the few internationally known jazz musicians from Finland. Although based in Helsinki, he performs extensively as a solo artist all over the world. Antti Sarpila has been a student of the world famous American clarinet and saxophone player Bob Wilber during the 1980's. Wilber himself was a student of legendary Sidney Bechet in the 1940's. This legacy is the reason for Sarpila's dedication and respect to the tradition of jazz. He wants to combine the influences captured from the early masters (from Louis Armstrong to Charlie Parker) with his own personal style to create what would be best described as "classic jazz".The continuing association between Antti and Bob has reaped many rewards. One of the highlights was in 1988, when Antti was asked to join Bob in doing a "Tribute to Benny Goodman" concert in Carnegie Hall, New York. In 2000 Antti renewed his visit to this legendary concert hall with the Swedish vibraphone player Lars Erstrand.  During his career, Antti has performed on numerous jazz festivals and concerts all over Europe, USA, Asia and as far as in Australia. 

Despite his relatively young age he has had the honour to play with such giants as Doc Cheatham, Wild Bill Davison, Buddy DeFranco, Vic Dickenson, Panama Francis, Bob Haggart, Scott Hamilton, Jake Hanna, John Henrics, Milt Hinton, Peanuts Hucko, Thad Jones, Dave McKenna, Bucky Pizzarelli, Marshal Royal, Zoot Sims, Dick Wellstood, Frank Wess, Trummy Young... and to guest world famous orchestras as Count Basie Orchestra, Metropole Orchestra, Dutch Swing College Band. In Finland Antti Sarpila has his own group - the Antti Sarpila Swing Band, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2007. In the fall it has already become a tradition for Antti Sarpila Swing Band to go on tour bringing "Swinging Christmas" to every corner of Finland. In addition, he performs regularly as a solo artist with small groups, big bands as well as symphony orchestras. Finnish jazz federation has awarded Antti Sarpila with annual "George" award 1997 and Classic Jazz Society with the "Louis Armstrong" award 1996. Antti Sarpila has made numerous recordings under his own name, the latest one being "Gospel & Spirituals" (ASCD-29). Antti Sarpila has done six recordings with Wilber, in New York, Stockholm, London, Bern (with Byron Stripling, John Allred, Mark Shane, Phil Flanigan, Joe Ascione), Hamburg and Florida (with Dick Hyman, Dan Barrett, Peter Appleyard, Ed Metz Jr.). 

In Hamburg he has also recorded six times with top American jazz musicians (incl. Ralph Sutton, Jack Lesberg, Bill Allred, Oliver Jackson, Butch Miles, Harry Allen, Jon-Erik Kellso, Randy Sandke, Ken Peplowski, Allan Vache). In Sweden he's been featured on several recordings (incl. Swedish Swing Society live in New York, Swedish Jazz Salutes USA live at Carnegie Hall). His contribution as a skilled jazz artist has also been featured on about 100 different recordings. Hans Westerberg has written a Antti Sarpila bio-/discography - "The Swinging Beginning" giving information about all recordings as well as all known broadcasts and telecasts between 1980 and 1998. Included in the book is a cd, compiled from the essential recordings during Antti Sarpila's early career.~ Bio http://www.anttisarpila.com/en/biography

Personnel: Oscar Klein, Antti Sarpila, Jesper Thilo, Roy Williams, Henri Chaix, Peter 'Banjo' Meyer, Vic Pitt, Charly Antolini

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

John Cocuzzi - Groove Merchant

Styles: Vibraphone Jazz
Year: 2011
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:02
Size: 165,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:58)  1. Groove Merchant
(4:56)  2. Crazy Rhythm
(8:05)  3. Dream Dancing
(5:10)  4. The Glory Of Love
(4:45)  5. How Am I To Know
(7:14)  6. Tenderly
(5:14)  7. Minor Drag
(3:43)  8. Mellow Guitar
(4:08)  9. Did I Remember
(3:52) 10. Last Night On The Back Porch (I Loved Her Most Of All)
(3:56) 11. Je Ne Sais Pa
(7:16) 12. What'll I Do
(2:40) 13. Lover

John Cocuzzi has long been a favorite at jazz parties for his swinging vibes, in addition to occasionally taking a turn at the piano and singing as well; he's been a featured artist since the inception of the Atlanta Jazz Party. But in a career that dates back to the 1990s, he has been recorded only sporadically, and this 2012 CD is his first CD to be issued on a widely distributed jazz label. For these sessions, Cocuzzi sticks to vibes with a few vocals, surrounded by a number of musicians who've played with him at jazz parties and/or on record dates: pianist John Sheridan, guitarist James Chirillo, bassist Frank Tate, drummer Joe Ascione, and clarinetist Antti Sarpila (who doubles on soprano sax). 

What's apparent right away is that the vibraphonist planned ahead by selecting a mix of familiar and forgotten songs, while finding a way to give them a fresh sound. Though Cocuzzi is a strong soloist, he isn't one to hog the spotlight, satisfied with taking a couple of choruses before sharing space with his mates. Cole Porter's "Dream Dancing" is recast as an easygoing samba, showcasing Sarpilla's playful clarinet, while the subtle swing of the vintage "Mellow Guitar" puts the spotlight on Chirillo, Cocuzzi, Sarpilla (on soprano), and Sheridan in turn. Cocuzzi's warm vocal in "Last Night on the Back Porch (I Loved Her Most of All)" is sincere rather than salacious, even though the song was considered suggestive when it was written in 1920s; it was considered wholesome enough to be recorded by Mitch Miller for his Singalong with Mitch series. 

"Je Ne Sais Pa" is a delicious swinger penned by Lionel Hampton and Hank Jones that sounds like it was written at the heyday of the Swing Era; Sarpilla's alternately gritty and lightly swinging clarinet and Cocuzzi's rapid-fire vibes keep it lively. Fats Waller's "Minor Drag" is full of pep as well, focusing on Sheridan's stride chops, Sarpilla's fiery soprano, and the leader's economical but potent vibes. Groove Merchant reinforces what jazz party fans have known for years: John Cocuzzi swings effortlessly every time, inspiring those sharing the stage or studio with him. ~ Ken Dryden   http://www.allmusic.com/album/groove-merchant-mw0002265260.

Personnel: John Cocuzzi (vocals, vibraphone); James Chirillo (guitar); Antti Sarpila (clarinet, soprano saxophone); John Sheridan (piano); Joe Ascione (drums, djembe, shaker).

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

The Three Tenors Of Swing - On Stage

Size: 167,2 MB
Time: 71:46
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Jazz: Swing
Art: Front

01. Bean Stalking - Idaho (1:57)
02. Shake It And Break It (3:08)
03. Black And Tan Fantasy (4:00)
04. The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise (5:13)
05. Attibert Wropila (5:22)
06. Jubilee Stomp (5:15)
07. La Vie En Rose (4:44)
08. South Rampart Street Parade (6:16)
09. Lester's Bounce (4:51)
10. Six Cats And A Prince (5:17)
11. The Mooche (5:27)
12. I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart (5:37)
13. Till Tom Special (5:53)
14. Misty Morning (3:51)
15. Websterity (4:46)

Antti Sarpila, Frank Roberscheuten, Engelbert Wrobel

Inspired by their shared love of and enthusiasm for the swing - jazz and from pleasure and joy of making music together in this tradition , three of the most renowned saxophonist and clarinetist of the European jazz scene have joined forces : Antti Sarpila from Finland, the Netherlands Frank Roberscheuten and Engelbert Wrobel from Germany . With plenty of power and drive , they allow taking a look back at the big time of swing and inspire their audiences with skillful arrangements , mainly from his own pen , and exciting improvisations. All three soloists and stand for years before his own formations .

With a wink, taking the headline reference to the famous " three tenors " from the Opera area. "The 3 Tenors of Swing " but might as well "The 3 Clarinets " or "The 3 Altos Of Swing " hot , or they would have to imagine as "The 3 Reed Men Of Swing" , because these three protagonists are all multi-instrumentalists - everyone plays both tenor and another saxophone, and clarinet - and each of these instruments masterfully.
The sound on the CD is wonderful, the musicians delightfully inspired, and the repertoire varied. I was listening to it for the first time this afternoon, and when the disc was about halfway through, I stopped it, and said to myself, “I have to write about this right now. It is so good.” It features Antti Sarpilla, Frank Roberscheuten, and Engelbert on reeds, with a rhythm section of Rolf Marx, guitar; Chris Hopkins, piano; Henning Gailing, string bass; Oliver Mewes, drums.

On Stage

Monday, January 6, 2014

Antti Sarpila, Frank Roberscheuten, Engelbert Wrobel - The Three Tenors of Swing

Styles: Swing
Year: 2012
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 68:43
Size: 158,5 MB
Art: Front

(4:35)  1. Bean Stalking (Idaho)
(3:37)  2. Please Be Kind
(4:55)  3. Please Don't Talk About Me (When I'm Gone)
(5:00)  4. Weary Blues
(2:34)  5. Oh My Solo (O Sole Mio)
(4:37)  6. East of the Sun (And West of the Moon)
(5:08)  7. One O' Clock Jump
(3:34)  8. Clarion Song
(3:39)  9. Flight of the Hawk
(4:07) 10. Laura
(5:17) 11. Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
(4:32) 12. Swing in the Clowns (From "i Pagliazzi")
(5:10) 13. Four Brothers
(3:59) 14. The Cat Walk
(4:48) 15. Panama Rag
(3:05) 16. Creole Love Call / Mood Indigo (Medley)

Inspired by their shared love and enthusiasm for the swing - jazz and from pleasure and joy of making music together in this tradition , three of the most renowned saxophonist and clarinetist of the European jazz scene have joined forces : Antti Sarpila from Finland, Frank Roberscheuten from the Netherlands  and Engelbert Wrobel from Germany . With plenty of power and drive , they allow taking a look back at the big time of swing and inspire their audiences with skillful arrangements , mainly from his own pen , and exciting improvisations. All three soloists and stand for years before his own formations .

With a wink, taking the headline reference to the famous " three tenors " from the Opera area. "The 3 Tenors of Swing " but might as well "The 3 Clarinets " or "The 3 Altos Of Swing " hot , or they would have to imagine as "The 3 Reed Men Of Swing" , because these three protagonists are all multi-instrumentalists - everyone plays both tenor and another saxophone, and clarinet - and each of these instruments masterfully. (translated using Google translator).  
http://www.swingsociety.de/html/the_three_tenors_of_swing.html