Search - Al Hirt :: At the Mardi Gras

Dixieland paradise!

Randy Charles | Wisconsin Rapids, WI United States | 04/02/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have had the privelege of owning and loving this record since it was released in the early 60's. I have wondered for a long time why it hadn't been remastered for CD as it is one of the finest jazz records ever recorded."Mardi Gras" is almost 40 years old now and it sounds as fresh as ever! When something is as good as this is,it never seems to get old. The players are wonderful. Pee Wee Spitelera on clarinet, Richard Nelson on trombone and Al himself are remarkable. Their improvisations are very melodic and beautifully played. That seems to me to be a missing element (melody) in many of the jazz imrovisations of today. These guys really say something when they play! As for the recording; figuring that this was almost 40 years ago, it's close to amazing! The clarity and the mix is real good--very pleasant to hear. I am basing this on the LP as I have just found out that the CD is now out. Without a doubt, if you enjoy great players swinging their proverbial butts off,don't hesitate one day---go get this! The additional tracks from these sessions should prove to be worth the price of admission alone but the whole thing is fabulous! My favorite has always been the opener--"Bourbon Street Parade." It is SO good that it has occasionally brought tears to my eyes. OK everybody--go get the jazz treat of 2000! END"

Another Great Al Hirt Re-Issue

Thomas Ciaccia | Knoxville, Tennesse | 05/20/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Every Al Hirt album from his prime years is full of the great sounds that makes New Orleans jazz so special. This album is no exception. The music jumps at you and makes you feel like you are right there. When will we see the "Live at Carnegie Hall" and "Pops Goes the Trumpet" recorded with the Boston Pops Orchestra) CD's?"

Al Hirt is still "The King"

Jack Reilly | Crosby, Texas United States | 03/21/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For AL'S Fans, this is worth the CD cost just for the four newly released songs at the end that were recorded during the same dates as the original album. The remaster is very good, better sounding than my original LP stereo recording. If you're a Hirt fan, add this one to your collection."