Search - Artie Shaw :: Evensong

Shaw at his best

BEN HOLLOWAY | Tempe, AZ, USA | 01/31/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This cd contains the songs, and bands that Artie most enjoyed, and his original intentions as a band leader ( see chronological classics 1936 ). The 1941-42 band is full of amazing stars of the era - George Auld,Dave Tough, Hot Lips Page, and Ray Connif.
I bring special attention to Chantes-les-baz, which according to
Shaw ( Personal best cd ) is exactly how he intended his band to sound. Also to the eminently swingimg Who's Excited, which fuses
swing and strings very well."

Artie Shaw sounds sweet on this CD

BEN HOLLOWAY | 05/19/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Evensong" contains a lot of names that sound as if they are swinging jazz tunes. However, Artie Shaw knew that he was at his best when making a softer sound, in the same style as chamber music, only somewhat more oriented in jazz. As a result, he performs in the style that suits him best. I do wish, however, that whoever put this CD out had put more of the sparkling hits of Mr. Shaw. However, there are some of them on here. Without question, the best song on this disc is "Dancing in the Dark," which he performed so incredibly well."