An excellent instrumental history of an 'American' genre
09/18/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am a contemporay jazz fan, and generally I am not exremely fond of older (more traditional or classic) jazz, but this is an excellent instrumental (non-vocal) and educational overview. The presentations of music from Scott Joplin to cutting edge jazz is inspirational. Additionally, this CD is 'enhanced' with neat computer audio and video files, bringing the history of jazz alive. Finally, I am very fond of the GRP label and the newer label N2K is also under the influence of the same jazz greats, Rosen & Grusin."
Fundamental Forerunners
RECORD SHOP GIRL | Northern Mpls Suburb | 02/09/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From Scott Joplin's rag, to Charlie Parker's & Miles Davis's beatnik cool, Disc 1 features pieces from some of the greatest innovators of jazz. Disc 2 illustrates the influence these fathers of jazz had on seminal artists of the 70s & 80s. After getting to know the pieces on this collection, you will easily recognize the role these artists continue to play in today's music--not just jazz, but in a wide range of genres.
Fans of roots music will also enjoy NPR's "American Routes" weekly program. Visit [...] for broadcast times on your local PR station."