Jazz for aficionados

I agree that this (bw) great version of “Tunisia” with Blakey was probably played on tour. The smaller drum set is what Blakey would have been taking on tour, for practical reasons. However, I think that it was in Brazil, not Europe. That “Tunisia” is from the same concert as the earlier “Moanin” with the great, but mysteriously controversial Lee Morgan solo. Reading between the lines, and looking at the listed copyright info on the link one can see that it was licensed by a Brazilian media company. Add to that how all the players pick up percussion instruments at one point; a bit of showmanship as a nod to Brazilian culture where practically everyone, musician or not, plays a percussion instrument. I would guess it was a televised concert.

Two great versions of “Tunisia”, but apples and oranges and enjoyable in very different ways. The first with Timmons, Morgan et al: classic feel, relaxed, with fabulous solos, and clearly a Blakey vibe. Also, and as Rok points out feeling a little “organized”. The second (color): definitely more boisterous and very exciting. Maclean kills with, for me, the best solo of all. The feel is entirely different. Almost like that of a jam session. Much more to the Latin side of things: faster, and very forward and on top of the beat; almost hectic. The presence of Hidalgo on congas definitely adds to that vibe.

However, I think the title is a little misleading. Blakey did have a working big band in the 50’s and recorded an album with that name, but to the best of my knowledge he didn’t have a working big band during the period of this concert. It seems to me to be some special event/concert with a lot of big names including a lot of the young lions at the time. An all star show of sorts with a lot of Blakey alumni. The feel is a lot less “Blakey” than the other clip and less that of a working band; not surprising since he lays out and other drummers play about half the time. To quote the last remaining aficionado on JFA: “more does not mean better”.

Nice clips; especially the first.

To quote the last remaining aficionado on JFA:

As always, The Frogman is precise and concise. :)

Cheers

Ray Charles is way more than a musical genius...He is a spiritual artist whose mission is to manifest only humanity and kindness ....And this mission never manifest so clearly than in his old age.....

Thanks for the links....