Tatum could play fast and could improvise with the tempo in tricky ways that would lose the average listener. A harmonic artistry emerged as his style matured.
Tatum's crowning achievement is The Tatum Solo Masterpieces, 121 selections Tatum recorded for Norman Grantz over a mere four days(!) from 1952-55. Don't know if others experienced a problem with the pressings on this 13 LP set on Pablo, but I did. So, I cannot recommend it over the CD.
From The Tatum Group Masterpieces on Pablo, my favorite is the recording he made with Ben Webster in 1956. Webster's gorgeous tone allows him to hold his own against Tatum's intimidating virtuosity. Tatum's 36 bar solo on All The Things You Are captures him at his very best.
Tatum's crowning achievement is The Tatum Solo Masterpieces, 121 selections Tatum recorded for Norman Grantz over a mere four days(!) from 1952-55. Don't know if others experienced a problem with the pressings on this 13 LP set on Pablo, but I did. So, I cannot recommend it over the CD.
From The Tatum Group Masterpieces on Pablo, my favorite is the recording he made with Ben Webster in 1956. Webster's gorgeous tone allows him to hold his own against Tatum's intimidating virtuosity. Tatum's 36 bar solo on All The Things You Are captures him at his very best.