Search - Jay Mcshann :: Jay McShann 1944-1946

Astounding performances

Dr.D.Treharne | Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom | 03/19/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The first four tracks alone of this album make it an essential purchase.These tracks recorded for Capitol not only have some astounding McShann piano work, but also feature Julia Lee on vocals. The performance is electrifying!. Tracks 5-11 were recorded in Los Angeles in 1945 and feature Crown Prince Waterford Numa Lee Davis and Jimmy Witherspoon on vocals, and include a remake of Walter Brown's "Confessin' the blues.The same line up recorded tracks 12-15 for Premier. The band is tight, though some of the performaces lack drive. Tracks 16 to 23 were recorded for Mercury in 1946, and are an excellent example of small band ensemble jazz with Jimmy Witherspoon not having to share the vocal honours, and the performances and recording standard are excellent.From this last session you should listen to "Have you ever loved a woman".However, it's the Julia Lee tracks that make this such a cracking set."