So I'm sitting here grading midterms and papers, and I need some background music. I start playing around with the beautiful, addictive plaything called the internet, then start getting specific: I want some jazz. No, some classic jazz. Pre-bebop and pre-cool classic jazz. Pre-bebop and pre-cool classic piano jazz. Which basically means, I want to hear some Oscar Peterson, some Fats Waller...and really, ultimately, some Art Tatum, arguably the greatest stride and jazz pianist of all time. And look what I managed to find?
His Tiger Rag is even better. Pure, effortless, amazing genius. Wish grading papers could come so easily.
The Pablo Solo Masterpieces box set is one of the best collections of jazz you can buy. Not cheap, but worth every penny. (The Group Masterpieces collection ain't too shabby either. The trio discs with Tatum, Lionel Hampton on vibes, and Buddy Rich on drums are astonishing.)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the recommendations, anonymous! I'd never heard of the Pablo Solo or Group stuff before. the box sets will have to go on the long-term to-buy list...but the "Best Of" cds of both, those I could probably pick up soon. Christmas isn't that far away...
ReplyDelete