Kenny Burrell - Unlimited 1: Live at Catalina's

Styles: Guitar Jazz, Big Band
Year: 2016
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 75:51
Size: 174,3 MB
Art: Front

(1:29)  1. Spoken Introduction
(9:33)  2. Stolen Moments
(5:36)  3. Jeannine
(5:43)  4. Be Yourself
(0:27)  5. Spoken Introduction
(6:03)  6. Remembering
(1:07)  7. Spoken Introduction
(9:33)  8. Mama Ya Ya
(5:43)  9. Fourth Dimensions (aka Kenny's Sound)
(7:49) 10. Adelante!
(0:26) 11. Spoken Introduction
(6:28) 12. Soulero
(0:22) 13. Spoken Introduction
(9:49) 14. Strayhorn Medley: Passion Flower/Take the "A" Train
(0:15) 15. Spoken Introduction
(5:22) 16. Things Ain't What They Used to Be (with Barbara Morrison)

Guitarist Kenny Burrell, who isn't generally known for hanging out with big bands, now has one of his own: the Los Angeles-based Jazz Orchestra Unlimited, for which he serves as music director on its debut album, Unlimited 1, Live at Catalina's. While the ensemble is splendid, individually and collectively, there's no doubt that Burrell is the star attraction. Any misgiving about that is erased by the fact that the names of orchestra members aren't listed in the Catalina's booklet except as soloists.

Luckily, most of them have at least one chance to do so, leaving less than a handful of uncounted participants. In his opening remarks, Burrell says a part of the orchestra's mission is to become a repertory ensemble playing "the great jazz classics and standards," a purpose that is somewhat underplayed here, as only four of the ten numbers would qualify as such. Besides soloing on all but one selection, Burrell sings on two (Duke Pearson's "Jeannine," his own "Remembering"), guest Barbara Morrison on one (the bravura finale, "Things Ain't What They Used to Be"). Although his voice is by no means polished, Burrell manages to reach the proper notes; Morrison, meanwhile, lends a bluesy patina to the Ellington classic, on which Burrell and the orchestra swing with abandon. Burrell's co-directors are composer / arranger / guitarist Charley Harrison and trumpeter Bobby Rodriguez, and among the album's highlights is Rodriguez' loping Latin-accented romp, "Mama Ya Ya," written to honor his great-great grandmother (on his mother's side).

Rodriguez also composed the multi-faceted "Adelante!" as a showpiece for Burrell and the orchestra. Completing the amiable program are Burrell's lyrical "Be Yourself" (inspired, he writes, by Ellington) and power-packed "Fourth Dimensions" (arranged by Don Sickler), Richard Evans ' evocative blues, "Soulero" (featuring versatile drummer Clayton Cameron) and a Billy Strayhorn medley ("Passion Flower," "Take the 'A' Train"), on the last of which the trumpet section reprises Ray Nance's original solo. In sum, an auspicious debut by the Jazz Unlimited Orchestra, whose sections are laden with some of the area's most accomplished sidemen, and another solid outing for Burrell who is at home in any arena.By Jack Bowers https://www.allaboutjazz.com/unlimited-1-live-at-catalinas-kenny-burrell-highnote-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php

Personnel: Kenny Burrell: artistic director, electric guitar, vocals, commentary; Los Angeles Jazz Orchestra Unlimited: Charley Harrison, Dr. Bobby Rodriguez: co-directors; Bobby Rodriguez: trumpet; Mike Price: trumpet; Dave Richards: trumpet; Jon Papanbrook: trumpet; Tom Marino: trumpet; Andre Delano: alto sax; Justo Almario: tenor sax, flute; Scott Mayo: tenor sax; Charles Owens: baritone sax; Nick De Pinna: trombone; Ryan Porter: trombone; Billy Mitchell: piano; Trevor Ware: bass; Clayton Cameron: drums; Barbara Morrison: vocal (16). Other personnel unlisted.

Unlimited 1: Live at Catalina's

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Barbara Morrison - I Love You, Yes I Do

Styles: Jazz, Vocal
Year: 2014
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:30
Size: 134,5 MB
Art: Front

(5:02)  1. Save Your Love For Me
(4:07)  2. And I Love Him
(5:24)  3. For The Love Of You
(3:47)  4. Blow Top Blues
(6:44)  5. Canadian Sunset
(4:26)  6. I Had a Talk With My Man Last Night
(5:12)  7. Trust In Me
(3:33)  8. I Didn't Know What Time It Was
(5:40)  9. Who Can I Turn To?
(4:56) 10. If It's The Last Thing I Do
(5:16) 11. Black Eyed Blues
(4:18) 12. I Love You Yes I Do

Being tense can cause creative blocks be they in music or in life, Barbara Morrison teams up with Houston Person for a celebration of song and life with I Love You, Yes I Do. Singers sing, vocal artists can take you places and this is the wheel house of Barbara Morrison. Houston Person is one of the most versatile tenor players having successfully worked in virtually every genre music imaginable.  What makes this release work so well aside from the obvious chemistry would be that the songs go deep catalog. Morrison avoids some of the more cliché tunes and opts for songs such as the Isley Brothers classic "For The Love Of You" and then simply crushes the Great American Songbook classic from Rogers and Hart, "I Didn't Know What Time It Was."There is a vibrant spirit to Morrison as she does more than sings the words, she makes the music. Houston Person is her perfect counterpoint while the rhythm section understands their roles in this improvisational exploratory of song and they are first rate!  There is something here for everyone. Nothing to grind on and perhaps the best review would be to call I Love You, Yes I Do a big lyrical hug! Fantastic! ~ Brent Black  http://www.criticaljazz.com/2014/08/barbara-morrison-i-love-you-yes-i-do.html                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
Personnel: Barbara Morrison: Vocals; Houston Person: Tenor Sax; Stuart Elster: Piano; Richard Simon: Bass; Lee Spath: Drums.

I Love You, Yes I Do

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Barbara Morrison & Peter Nordahl Trio - Timeless

Styles: Vocal
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 55:59
Size: 134,9 MB
Art: Front

(5:34) 1. I Can't Make You Love Me
(4:16) 2. What A Difference A Day Made
(4:56) 3. All In Love Is Fair
(5:52) 4. All My Tomorrows
(5:31) 5. At Last
(4:05) 6. Never Let Me Go
(4:06) 7. River's Invitation
(3:09) 8. This Is Always
(4:55) 9. Easy Living
(5:01) 10. I'm In the Mood For Love
(3:28) 11. I Can't Make You Love Me (Short Version)
(5:01) 12. At Last

Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan and raised in Romulus, Michigan, Barbara Morrison recorded her first appearance for radio in Detroit at the age of 10. Well known in the Los Angeles area for her duo and trio dates Ms. Morrison also tours extensively, blazing a trail as a Jazz and Blues legend in her own right across the Continental United States, Western Europe the Far East and “Down Under,” wowing audiences with her band.

Fresh off a 33 US City tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for the classic film, The Wizard of Oz), Barbara now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual “who's who” of the Jazz and the Blues worlds. That list includes legends like; Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, James Moody, Ron Carter, Etta James, Esther Phillips, David T. Walker, Jimmy Smith, Johnny Otis, Dr. John, Kenny Burrell, Terence Blanchard, Joe Sample, Cedar Walton, Nancy Wilson, Mel Torme, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and Keb' Mo. Additional, Ms. Morrison guest stars with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra and Doc Severinsen's Big Band.

The dazzling Barbara Morrison has been featured on over 20 recordings. She has dazzled fans of a wide aray of genres from traditional Jazz and Blues to Gospel and Pop. Her melodic voice, with its two-and-a-half-octave range, is known worldwide, as are her rich, unique, soulful and highly spirited interpretations of both, familiar Jazz and Blues classics and original contemporary tunes. Equally as striking is Ms. Morrison's ability to belt out down-home, soul-stirring Blues. Her impassioned renditions of old and favorite torch songs are nothing short of breathtaking.In addition to her multiple solo recordings, fans have experienced the pleasure of Barbara Morrison's rich and vibrant tones on such notable film and television appearances as; the movie sound track for The Hurricane (starring Denzel Washington), Goin' Home: A Tribute to Duke Ellington and Johnny Otis's CD “Ooo Shoo Be Dooo”. Additional credits include the hit NBC TV comedy The Naked Truth, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Dennis Miller Show.

In additional to her gigs with other Jazz and Blues groups and legends, Barbara Morrison also performs at the more renown Blues and Jazz Festivals around the world. Her many outstanding appearances, including those at Montreaux, Nice, Pori, Carnegie Hall, North Sea, Monterey, Long Beach, as well as her Salute to Dizzy Gillespie and her Tribute to Benny Golson, are fondly remembered by Morrison fans who return again and again to share her rare, unique and exceptional vocal gifts. Blue Lady Records proudly presents Jazz and Blues great, Barbara Morrison, now available for bookings for 2005/2006. https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/barbara-morrison

Timeless

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Barbara Morrison - Warm and Cozy

Styles: Vocal
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:35
Size: 134,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:21) 1. Detour Ahead
(4:23) 2. Body and Soul
(2:31) 3. Them There Eyes
(4:15) 4. Don't Explain
(3:34) 5. Never Let Me Go
(2:44) 6. The Touch of Your Lips
(4:43) 7. Crazy He Calls Me
(4:26) 8. You Can Have Him
(2:26) 9. Red Top
(4:56) 10. I Wonder Where Our Love Has Gone
(4:16) 11. Last Night When We Were Young
(2:18) 12. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
(4:15) 13. The Music That Makes Me Dance
(3:39) 14. Darn That Dream
(4:40) 15. Stormy Weather (Keeps Rainin' All the Time)

Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan and raised in Romulus, Michigan, Barbara Morrison recorded her first appearance for radio in Detroit at the age of 10. Well known in the Los Angeles area for her duo and trio dates Ms. Morrison also tours extensively, blazing a trail as a Jazz and Blues legend in her own right across the Continental United States, Western Europe the Far East and “Down Under,” wowing audiences with her band.

Fresh off a 33 US City tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for the classic film, The Wizard of Oz), Barbara now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual “who's who” of the Jazz and the Blues worlds. That list includes legends like; Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, James Moody, Ron Carter, Etta James, Esther Phillips, David T. Walker, Jimmy Smith, Johnny Otis, Dr. John, Kenny Burrell, Terence Blanchard, Joe Sample, Cedar Walton, Nancy Wilson, Mel Torme, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and Keb' Mo. Additional, Ms. Morrison guest stars with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra and Doc Severinsen's Big Band.

The dazzling Barbara Morrison has been featured on over 20 recordings. She has dazzled fans of a wide aray of genres from traditional Jazz and Blues to Gospel and Pop. Her melodic voice, with its two-and-a-half-octave range, is known worldwide, as are her rich, unique, soulful and highly spirited interpretations of both, familiar Jazz and Blues classics and original contemporary tunes. Equally as striking is Ms. Morrison's ability to belt out down-home, soul-stirring Blues. Her impassioned renditions of old and favorite torch songs are nothing short of breathtaking.

In addition to her multiple solo recordings, fans have experienced the pleasure of Barbara Morrison's rich and vibrant tones on such notable film and television appearances as; the movie sound track for The Hurricane (starring Denzel Washington), Goin' Home: A Tribute to Duke Ellington and Johnny Otis's CD “Ooo Shoo Be Dooo”. Additional credits include the hit NBC TV comedy The Naked Truth, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Dennis Miller Show.

In additional to her gigs with other Jazz and Blues groups and legends, Barbara Morrison also performs at the more renown Blues and Jazz Festivals around the world. Her many outstanding appearances, including those at Montreaux, Nice, Pori, Carnegie Hall, North Sea, Monterey, Long Beach, as well as her Salute to Dizzy Gillespie and her Tribute to Benny Golson, are fondly remembered by Morrison fans who return again and again to share her rare, unique and exceptional vocal gifts.https://musicians.allaboutjazz.com/barbaramorrison

Warm and Cozy

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Barbara Morrison, Houston Person - A Sunday Kind of Love

Styles: Vocal And Saxophone Jazz 
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:26
Size: 126,1 MB
Art: Front

(4:41)  1. I'm Just a Lucky so and So
(3:46)  2. Soft Winds
(3:54)  3. The Green Door
(4:55)  4. Good Morning Heartache
(5:19)  5. A Sunday Kind of Love
(3:23)  6. On the Sunny Side of the Street
(5:27)  7. I Cover the Waterfront
(4:53)  8. My Romance
(3:50)  9. Polka Dots and Moonbeams
(4:28) 10. I Love You for Sentimental Reasons
(5:25) 11. Smile / Make Someone Happy
(4:21) 12. Let's Stay Together

While no female vocalist will likely ever match Dinah Washington’s brilliance at blending jazz and blues, Barbara Morrison has come closest. At age 60, she continues to rival Washington’s beam-rattling slither and thrust, though on gentler selections there’s the enticing suggestion of Billie Holiday blended with the late-career majesty of Maxine Sullivan. In 2005, Morrison teamed with tenor saxophonist Houston Person for a killer live recording at the Dakota in Minneapolis. At last reunited, they remain an ideal match, whether softly tracing the heartache of “I Cover the Waterfront” or emblazoning a Dinah-worthy reading of the title tune. Ably assisted by what Morrison refers to as her “automatic A team”-pianist Stuart Elster, bassist Richard Simon and drummer Lee Spath-the pair proves delightfully unpredictable across their 12-track playlist. They sandwich a swirling “Polka Dots and Moonbeams” between creamy treatments of “My Romance” and “(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons,” and offset a growly “I’m Just a Lucky So and So” with an oxymoronically propulsive “Soft Winds” and a deeply moving “Good Morning Heartache.” Most surprising, and delightful, is their transformation of deejay Jim Lowe’s mid-’50s novelty hit, “The Green Door,” into a sly, bluesy cooker in the spirit of Morrison’s one-time boss Ray Charles. ~ Christopher Loudon https://jazztimes.com/reviews/albums/barbara-morrison-a-sunday-kind-of-love/

Personnel:  Vocals, Producer – Barbara Morrison; Tenor Saxophone, Producer – Houston Person; Drums – Lee Spath; Piano – Stewart Elster

A Sunday Kind of Love

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Terry Gibbs - From Me To You: A Tribute To Lionel Hampton

Size: 153,2 MB
Time: 65:55
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2003
Styles: Jazz
Art: Front

01. Midnight Sun (4:08)
02. Blues For Hamp (5:53)
03. Ring Dem Bells (3:49)
04. Moonglow (3:47)
05. Gates Got Rhythm (3:23)
06. On The Sunny Side Of The Street (4:56)
07. From Me To You (7:00)
08. Red Top (5:51)
09. Evil Gal Blues (4:19)
10. Hey! Ba-Ba-Re-Bop (3:57)
11. Two-Finger Boogie Shuffle (3:22)
12. The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise (2:15)
13. Star Dust (7:12)
14. Flying Home (5:56)

“No one wants to see a short Jew singing love songs—unless you’re Al Jolson. But rhythm songs? So long as you have a good time it’s OK.” —Terry Gibbs

Trust me, it’s more than just OK and you will have a good time, as vibraphone master Terry Gibbs sings, swings, and generally carouses his way through this tribute to Lionel Hampton. Featuring many of the classic songs usually associated with the late great King of the Vibes, including “Midnight Sun,” “Hey! Ba-Ba-Re-Bop,” and “Evil Gal Blues,” plus some new compositions by Gibbs himself – this record that will make any fan of classic swing smile.

“Ring Dem Bells,” a delicious Duke Ellington romp, takes a joyous trip into the past, with Gibbs’ vocals duetting with the band. Gibbs sings again on a gently nostalgic “Sunny Side of the Street,” and the infectious “Hey! Ba-Ba- Re-Bop,” making one wonder why it’s taken him over five decades years to be recorded as a vocalist again (his last vocal recording was on “Lemon Drop” with Woody Herman, 54 years ago).

Accompanying Gibbs is the quartet of Pete Christlieb on tenor sax, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Mike Melvoin on piano, Dave Carpenter on bass, and Jeff Hamilton on drums. Their playing is solid, especially on their solos.

The album also features guest stars Joey DeFrancesco on organ and bluesy singer Barbara Morrison. DeFrancesco makes his mark on the seriously cool “Blues for Hamp.” (Christlieb and Melvoin are especially strong on this track as well.) It’s a swinging and entirely appropriate tribute, and Gibbs has some of his best moments here with a great solo punctuated by his singing (humming? talking?) along with the groove.

Barbara Morrison’s take on “Evil Gal Blues” (a song first recorded by Dinah Washington) is sultry, soulful, and serious. It’s low-down blues, with Gibbs’ vibes acting as a sympathetic chorus to the powerful vocals and DeFrancesco chiming in to punctuate the “I’m no good for you” message.

Gibbs puts the mallets down in fact if not in spirit for “Two-Finger Boogie Shuffle,” a struttin’ piano duet with Melvoin. Gibbs plays it as advertised, with two fingers, and the result is a cool, syncopated stride that’s pure pleasure.

Whether it’s fast and furious (“The World is Waiting for Sunrise”) or easy and romantic (“Star Dust”), Gibbs and band handle it with class and style— just like Hampton did. I think he’d approve of From Me to You. It truly does capture Hamp’s musicality, swing, and, above all, joy. Bravo, Mr. Gibbs, I think you’ve succeeded in ensuring that your audience has almost as much fun as I’m sure you had recording this. ~Lisa Dornell

Personnel: Terry Gibbs - Vibes, Dave Carpenter - Bass, Michael Melvoin - Piano, Joey DeFrancesco - Organ, Anthony Wilson - Guitar, Jeff Hamilton - Drums, Barbara Morrison, Terry Gibbs - Vocals.

From Me To You

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Barbara Morrison - I Wanna Be Loved

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2017
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:04
Size: 119,0 MB
Art: Front

(2:57)  1. Perdido
(4:15)  2. I Wanna Be Loved
(3:10)  3. This Time The Dream's On Me
(5:08)  4. I'll Close My Eyes
(4:10)  5. Shiny Stockings
(5:04)  6. Skylark
(5:19)  7. Work Song
(5:04)  8. When Sunny Gets Blue
(6:14)  9. Please Send Me Someone To Love
(3:28) 10. September In The Rain
(4:10) 11. Make Me A Present Of You

Barbara Morrison, one of the world’s most delightful and endearing jazz personalities returns to the recording studio and brings her good friend, tenor saxophonist Houston Person with her for her third recording on Savant Records. Her patented Music in the Morrison Manner, featuring blues, standards and even an occasional pop tune, has endeared her to audiences on both coasts and earned her a place among the most talented and skilled jazz vocalists working today. Morrison’s delivery and vivaciousness has the ability to charm listeners while her timing and intonation are virtually flawless and the subtle perfection of her phrasing evokes the great vocalists of the past. The spirit of Dinah Washington hovers over this recording with many of the Great Lady’s tunes receiving a Morrison Makeover while Houston Person weaves his husky-toned arabesques around the timeless melodies. 

~ Editorial Reviews https://www.amazon.com/Wanna-Be-Loved-Barbara-Morrison/dp/B071D41P91

I Wanna Be Loved

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Doc Severinsen & His Big Band - Swingin' The Blues

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 53:59
Size: 123.6 MB
Styles: Big band
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[0:56] 1. Intro A La Indigo
[3:57] 2. C Jam Blues
[3:31] 3. Everyday I Have The Blues
[3:38] 4. Wang Wang Blues
[4:18] 5. In A Sentimental Mood
[5:03] 6. Happy Go Lucky Local Blues
[0:43] 7. Doc And Snooky Banter
[3:00] 8. Don't Touch Me
[3:10] 9. Topsy (Arr. T.P.T. Newsom) Topsy
[4:01] 10. What's New
[2:37] 11. The Hucklebuck
[4:10] 12. All Blues
[6:52] 13. West End Blues
[7:55] 14. The Supreme Sacrifice

Doc Severinsen, Tom Delibero, Snooky Young, Conte Candoli, Dennis Tribuzzi, Chuck Findley - trumpet/flugelhorn; Barbara Morrison - vocals; Ed Shaughnessy - drums; Ernie Watts - tenor sax; Mike Daigeau, Steve West - trombone; Ernie Tack - bass trombone; John Bambridge, Karolyn Kafer - alto sax/ soprano sax/flute/clarinet; Phil Feather, Doug Webb - tenor sax, flute, clarinet; Bill Perkins - baritone sax; Ross Tompkins - piano; Bill Cunliffe - piano, Hammond B3 organ#; John Leitham - bass.

Over the last few years, Doc Severinsen has kept a big band together by playing concerts and touring. This successor to the Tonight Show Band, so important to the success of the Johnny Carson show, continues to feature fresh, imaginative arrangements and stellar musicians to perform them. Many members of the group not only played with Severinsen on the Tonight show, but have their roots in the big band, swing tradition like Conte Candoli, Bill Perkins and especially Snooky Young who anchors the trumpet section. Critical to the success of a big band is a drummer who can drive the group, as well as take a roof raising solo from time to time. Ed Shaughnessy fills that prescription. Not only does he move the band with his relentless beat, but he hammers out some significant solos. That he is out of the Gene Krupa school of drumming is evident on Topsy. His performance recalls the Krupa solo on "Sing, Sing, Sing" at the 1938 Carnegie Hall Concert. He isn't all that subtle, but he sure can swing. "Topsy" is one of the highlights of the session and alone is worth the price of the album.

Severinsen is also generous is his distribution of solo time among the rest of the band members, as well as reserving time for himself. Doc is especially prominent on the Joe Oliver/Clarence Williams "West End Blues", an early favorite of Louis Armstrong. After an opening chorus from Severinsen, Bill Perkins comes in, assuming the Harry Carney baritone sax role on "In a Sentimental Mood", getting strong backing from Ross Tompkins' piano. Severinsen takes some more licks on a fervent arrangement of Bob Haggard's classic "What's New" recalling that Haggard was the first to occupy the bass chair in the original Tonight Show Band. The CD's denouement, "The Supreme Sacrifice", is a gospel-like number complete with Bill Cunliffe's Hammond B-3 organ, rumbling choruses from Mike Daigeau's trombone and Snooky Young' trumpet, with some parting shots from Severinsen. As icing on this musical cake, vocalist Barbara Morrison joins the group as "girl singer". Her presence also strengths the blues credentials for this session. She plays Joe Williams on "Every Day I Have the Blues" and does "Don't Touch Me" (pleasantly risque), and" The Hucklebuck", sharing the stage with Conte Candoli's trumpet. Probably no other form of jazz demands good, solid arrangements than big band swing. This album has outstanding material, with seven arrangements by the dependable Tommy Newsom and the rest divided among Artie Butler, John Bambridge and Bill Holman. Good arrangements, a fine play list and top flight musicians in a driving big band puts this album in the highly recommended category. ~Dave Nathan

Swingin' The Blues

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Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra - L.A. Treasures Project

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:48
Size: 146.1 MB
Styles: Standards, Big band
Year: 2014
Art: Front

[3:22] 1. I Love Being Here With You
[3:57] 2. Exactly Like You
[5:04] 3. The Jug And I
[6:42] 4. Hat's Dance
[5:21] 5. I'm Getting Sentimental Over You
[3:47] 6. Got To Get Back To L.A
[6:20] 7. Goodbye Portpie Hat
[4:26] 8. River's Invitation
[3:19] 9. Beautiful Friendship
[7:17] 10. I Ain't Got Nothin' But The Blues
[4:54] 11. Time After Time
[4:38] 12. Fever
[4:35] 13. Jazz Party

John Clayton: arco bass, Jeff Clayton: alto saxophone; Jeff Hamilton: drums; Bijon Watson: trumpet; Gilbert Castellanos: trumpet; James Ford: trumpet; Brian Swartz: trumpet; Jamie Hovorka: trumpet; Ira Nepus: trombone; George Bohanon: trombone; Ryan Porter: trombone; Maurice Spears: trombone; Keith Fiddmont: alto saxophone; Ricky Woodard: tenor saxophone; Charles Owens: tenor saxophone; Lee Callet: baritone saxophone; Tamir Hendelman: piano; Christopher Luty: bass; Graham Dechter: electric guitar; Ernie Andrews: vocals; Barbara Morrison: vocals.

For nearly thirty-years now the Grammy-nominated Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra (CHJO) has been easily recognizable as one of the best big bands in the business. Led by bassist John Clayton, saxophonist and brother Jeff Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, the group embarked on a mission to document their various rehearsals with West Coast vocal legends Ernie Andrews and Barbara Morrison, and do so with The L.A. Treasures Project recorded live in the famous Showroom of Alva's Dance Studio and Music Store in San Pedro, California.

Presenting a mixture of instrumentals and vocal numbers, the opening "I Love Being Here With You" seemed an appropriate start and message for the intimate crowd in the Showroom and features excellent solos from each member of the trombone section. Having 20 recordings to her credit, Morrison steps up to lay down a soulful rendition of the Dorothy Fields classic "Exactly Like You" with a little solo help from Lee Callet on the baritone saxophone. The crisp vocals of local legend Andrews takes over the music with a bluesy and sprite interpretation of the Percy Mayfield standard "The Jug and I," superbly aided by the big band orchestrations of the CHJO.

Co-leader Hamilton and pianist Tamir Hendelman take center stage on their composition "Hat's Dance" with the duo playing the lead as the band grooves gently behind them in fine support for one of the tender moments of the disc. The Clayton brothers take their turn in the spot light on the Charles Mingus piece "Goodbye Porkpie Hat" as Jeff Clayton's bluesy alto flute begins the journey that eventually leads to brother John's bowed bass play in unison with Christoph Luty's own bass performance. The two singers get back to form with Andrews getting sentimental on the standard "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You," while the swinging Gospel vocalist Morrison belts the lyrics to "Got To Get Back To L.A.," one of her own compositions telling the world how she feels about the City.

Morrison delivers the lyrics on "River's Invitation" and the classic "Fever" as the veteran Andrews does the same on "Beautiful Friendship" and the Sammy Cahn favorite "Time After Time" completing their vocal contribution to this historic night but, the CHJO was not finished. The ensemble plays a powerful opening statement on "I Ain't Got Nothin' But The Blues" only to turn it over to the electric guitar of Graham Dechter as he picks his way all through this terrific blues. In fitting form the CHJO ends the evening with "Jazz Party" elevating the excitement level with salvos fired by saxophonists Rickey Woodard and Charles Owens accompanied by one final pounding drum solo by Hamilton.

It's obvious that The L.A. Treasures Project refers to singers Andrews and Morrison but, not to be overlooked, is the CHJO, an unquestioned treasure that this time delivers a meaty program of standards and mainstream jazz with a vocal twist perfect as a precursor to the group's thirtieth anniversary in 2015. ~Edward Blanco

L.A. Treasures Project

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Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra - L.A. Treasures Project

Styles: Jazz, Big Band
Year: 2014
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:29
Size: 145,9 MB
Art: Front

(3:21)  1. I Love Being Here with You
(3:56)  2. Exactly Like You
(5:02)  3. The Jug and I
(6:40)  4. Hat's Dance
(5:19)  5. I'm Getting Sentimental Over You
(3:47)  6. Got To Get Back To L.A.
(6:18)  7. Goodbye Porkpie Hat
(4:25)  8. River's Invitation
(3:19)  9. Beautiful Friendship
(7:14) 10. I Ain't Got Nothin' But the Blues
(4:53) 11. Time After Time
(4:36) 12. Fever
(4:34) 13. Jazz Party

For nearly thirty-years now the Grammy-nominated Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra (CHJO) has been easily recognizable as one of the best big bands in the business. Led by bassist John Clayton, saxophonist and brother Jeff Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, the group embarked on a mission to document their various rehearsals with West Coast vocal legends Ernie Andrews and Barbara Morrison, and do so with The L.A. Treasures Project recorded live in the famous Showroom of Alva's Dance Studio and Music Store in San Pedro, California.  Presenting a mixture of instrumentals and vocal numbers, the opening "I Love Being Here With You" seemed an appropriate start and message for the intimate crowd in the Showroom and features excellent solos from each member of the trombone section. Having 20 recordings to her credit, Morrison steps up to lay down a soulful rendition of the Dorothy Fields classic "Exactly Like You" with a little solo help from Lee Callet on the baritone saxophone. The crisp vocals of local legend Andrews takes over the music with a bluesy and sprite interpretation of the Percy Mayfield standard "The Jug and I," superbly aided by the big band orchestrations of the CHJO.

Co-leader Hamilton and pianist Tamir Hendelman take center stage on their composition "Hat's Dance" with the duo playing the lead as the band grooves gently behind them in fine support for one of the tender moments of the disc. The Clayton brothers take their turn in the spot light on the Charles Mingus piece "Goodbye Porkpie Hat" as Jeff Clayton's bluesy alto flute begins the journey that eventually leads to brother John's bowed bass play in unison with Christoph Luty's own bass performance. The two singers get back to form with Andrews getting sentimental on the standard "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You," while the swinging Gospel vocalist Morrison belts the lyrics to "Got To Get Back To L.A.," one of her own compositions telling the world how she feels about the City. Morrison delivers the lyrics on "River's Invitation" and the classic "Fever" as the veteran Andrews does the same on "Beautiful Friendship" and the Sammy Cahn favorite "Time After Time" completing their vocal contribution to this historic night but, the CHJO was not finished. The ensemble plays a powerful opening statement on "I Ain't Got Nothin' But The Blues" only to turn it over to the electric guitar of Graham Dechter as he picks his way all through this terrific blues. In fitting form the CHJO ends the evening with "Jazz Party" elevating the excitement level with salvos fired by saxophonists Rickey Woodard and Charles Owens accompanied by one final pounding drum solo by Hamilton. 

It's obvious that The L.A. Treasures Project refers to singers Andrews and Morrison but, not to be overlooked, is the CHJO, an unquestioned treasure that this time delivers a meaty program of standards and mainstream jazz with a vocal twist perfect as a precursor to the group's thirtieth anniversary in 2015. ~ Edward Blanco http://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-la-treasures-project-the-clayton-hamilton-jazz-orchestra-capri-records-ltd-review-by-edward-blanco.php

Personnel: John Clayton: arco bass, Jeff Clayton: alto saxophone; Jeff Hamilton: drums; Bijon Watson: trumpet; Gilbert Castellanos: trumpet; James Ford: trumpet; Brian Swartz: trumpet; Jamie Hovorka: trumpet; Ira Nepus: trombone; George Bohanon: trombone; Ryan Porter: trombone; Maurice Spears: trombone; Keith Fiddmont: alto saxophone; Ricky Woodard: tenor saxophone; Charles Owens: tenor saxophone; Lee Callet: baritone saxophone; Tamir Hendelman: piano; Christopher Luty: bass; Graham Dechter: electric guitar; Ernie Andrews: vocals; Barbara Morrison: vocals.

L.A. Treasures Project

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Johnny Otis - Blues & Swing Party Vol 1

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s

Time: 70:33

Size: 161.5 MB

Styles: R&B, West Coast blues

Year: 1998

Art: Front

[3:06] 1. It Don’t Mean A Thing

[2:54] 2. Shake, Rattle & Roll

[2:33] 3. Choo- Choo-Ch-Boogie

[2:13] 4. Louie, Louie

[6:23] 5. Mood Indigo

[3:14] 6. Hideaway

[2:20] 7. I’ve Got The Walkin’ Blues

[3:25] 8. Cleanhead’s Blues

[6:27] 9. People Will Say We’re In Love

[2:33] 10. Country Girl

[3:05] 11. Sincerely

[2:56] 12. The Honeydripper- Part 1

[3:03] 13. Misery

[2:00] 14. Don’t Start Me To Talkin’

[3:28] 15. I’ve Been Lovin’ You Too Long

[2:55] 16. Old Folks Boogie

[3:49] 17. Barrelhouse Blues

[2:30] 18. Baby, I’ve Got News For You

[2:33] 19. Stack- A- Lee

[3:28] 20. Harlem Nocturne

[2:24] 21. Please Don’t Leave Me

[3:05] 22. Bye, Bye, Baby

Charles Williams: Vocals; Richard Berry: Piano, Vocals; Louis Jordan: Saxophone, Vocals; Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson: Saxophone, Vocals; Esther Phillips: Vocals; Plas Johnson: Saxophone; Wilton Felder: Bass; Johnny Otis: Drums, Producer, Piano, Vocals, Arranger; Big Joe Turner: Vocals; Shuggie Otis: Guitar, Bass; Joe Liggins: Piano, Vocals; Jim Wynn: Credit Not Specified; George Washington: Trombone; Delmar Evans: Vocals; Barbara Morrison: Vocals; Larry Douglas: Trumpet; Rene Bloch: Alto Saxophone; Bob Mitchell: Trumpet; Jimmy Nolan: Guitar; Clifford Solomon: Tenor Saxophone; Dan Armstrong: Trombone; Jackie Kelso: Saxophone; John Ewing: Trombone; Mack Johnson: Trumpet; Melvin Moore: Trumpet; Ron Selico: Drums; Devonia Williams: Piano; Big Jim Wynn: Baritone Saxophone; Ronald Wilson: Saxophone; Irv Cox: Saxophone; Johnnie Parket: Bass; Johnny Parker: Bass; Paul Lagos: Drums; Lucky Otis: Bass; Nicky Otis: Drums; Al Simmons: Credit Not Specified; Gene Conners: Trombone; Slim Green: Guitar; Don Johnson: Trumpet.

Blues & Swing Party Vol 1

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Danny Caron - How Sweet It Is

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 48:40
Size: 111.4 MB
Styles: Jazz-blues guitar
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[4:54] 1. Zydeco Boogaloo
[4:37] 2. The Promised Land
[4:30] 3. One For The Road
[4:19] 4. Grand Lake Shuffle
[4:56] 5. E.S.B. Blues
[6:12] 6. The Chicken
[4:22] 7. Need Your Love So Bad
[4:31] 8. Rock Candy
[7:09] 9. Body And Soul
[3:04] 10. Our Miss Brooks

n his own description, Danny Caron sees How Sweet It Is as an extension of Good Hands, and in many ways it is. But to my ears while Good Hands is about incredible guitar work from an incredible guitarist, How Sweet It Is is about musical choices. Don’t get me wrong, there is still plenty of great guitar work here but the choices make How Sweet It Is the great CD it is.

The first choice, naturally enough, is the music. While mostly slow blues and stylized jazz, there are even a couple of different flavors of zydeco, the jumping Zydeco Boogoloo and the slow, country roots One For The Road. As his bio indicates, this is the range of music Danny has been playing his whole life, and continues to play. All the numbers are beautifully arranged.

The next choice is the musicians. While all the players on this CD are noteworthy, to me the keyboard players deserve special mention: Wayne De La Cruz and Jimmy Pugh driving B-3 and John R. Burr on piano. It doesn’t get better at providing a counterpoint to Caron’s guitar. And though he only appears on a couple of tracks, Jeff Ervin delivers some truly powerful sax.

Did I mention vocals? The late Charles Brown is here; so smooth, like silk, forever. And Barbara Morrison, playful and earthy, like hearing the blues you always knew but never knew you missed quite so much.

For what is primarily an instrumental album, the several vocals on this CD are, on their own merit, worth the price of admission.

In short, How Sweet It Is is a great musical choice. Check it out. ~Karl Cishek

How Sweet It Is

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