Readers who know the value of a good thing will keep their back numbers of this Journal, and thus can save themselves further reading. This record was noted at length by Stanley Dance in the “Lightly and Politely” column, issue of July 1960, when he dealt with its American issue.
It is a delightful record, good natured, and done entirely for entertainment. Obviously the musicians were entertained as well, and there are a number of humorous passages, notably the very prolonged trill in Earl’s old favourite “St. Louis B. W.,” and the succession of quotes and musical back-chat which make up the bulk of “Like When The Saints”.
This is not soul jazz, nor anything for the concert platform. It is deceptively easy jazz, the best of background music, guaranteed to take anyone’s mind off the rat race for a few moments.
The supporting group is excellent. There is a rare sparkle about the bass playing of Carl Pruitt, as in “Rosetta”, and the guitar treats the melody with respect. Hines’ vocal “You Can Depend On Me” is quite charming. A good, satisfying record.
Discography
St. Louis Blues Boogie Woogie; Tea For Two; Stealin’ Apples; Willow Weep For Me; I Can’t Believe That You’re In Love With Me; Rosetta (22½ min.) Like When The Saints; Satin Doll; Manhattan; You Can Depend On Me; Love Me Or Leave Me; The Song Is Ended (24 min.)
Earl Hines (p); Calvin Newborn (gtr); Carl Pruitt (bs); Bill English (d).
(MGM C 833. 12inLP. 34s. 1½d.)
