The very first album Gene Norman put out on his GNP Crescendo label, featuring Charlie's "Be-Bop for the People" band and the irresistible "vocalise" stylings of Jackie and Roy! Conte Candoli, Benny Green and Dave McKenna are on hand for Birdland; Boptura; Jersey Bounce; Basin Street Blues , and more.
J**K
Exhilarating and atmospheric jazz from Charlie Ventura in 1949.
Tenor and baritone saxophonist Charlie Ventura(1916-92) was influenced by Coleman Hawkins & Chu Berry and played with Gene Krupa among others during the early 1940s as well as Jazz at the Philharmonic appearances.This excellent CD includes part of a concert recorded at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on May 9, 1949 with Ventura(tenor, baritone & bass sax); Conte Candoli(trumpet); Benny Green(trombone); Boots Mussulli(alto sax); Dave McKenna(piano); Kenny O'Brien or Bob Carter(bass); Ed Shaughnessy or Sonny Igoe(drums); Jackie Cain & Roy Kral(vocals).This 'bop for the people' band created some exhilarating music and highlights include 'Birdland'; 'High On An Open Mike', 'Dark Eyes' & a version of 'Basin Street Blues' with Ventura on bass sax. Tracks 10-13 appear to be from another concert but where or when is not made clear from the liner notes.With an hour of well-recorded and atmospheric live jazz this is a fine introduction to the neglected Charlie Ventura.
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