Toots Thielemans


Has anyone seen Toot's Live? He's 89 now and still touring. I was listening to his 'Aquarela Do Brasil' release because I'm a huge Elis Regina fan.

If you don't know Toot's, Google search him. He's the best harmonica player that ever lived, and I don't think anyone would even argue with that statement. If you live in the U.S. and are 45 years old or younger, he's the guy playing the harmonica at the end of Sesame Street.
donjr
Saw him in Paris at the Louvre with Lionel Hampton's Band.
How's that for one upmanship.

Somebody must have listened to PBS last night.
I guess I would argue with the "best" statement. For "best " harmonica player designation, it would be hard to not look at Larry Adler, an amazing virtuoso. But I would certainly agree that Toots is the best Jazz harmonica player.

If you like "Aquarela Do Brazil", you should check out his "Brazil Project". One of his more commercial projects, but beautiful music and audiophile grade sonics. Another favorite is his work as sideman on one of Bill Evans' lesser known records, "Affinity".
Thanks for the responses. I agree with everything you have all posted. Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only one into this stuff. I listen to a wide range of music. To give you an example, I was listening to 24 bit 9 Inch Nails today, and am now listening to Pink Martini. I even like some old country music but not much. I will soon be listening to Brazilain Bossa Nova.