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Louis Armstong
The Big Band Recordings 1930-32
(JSP)
There has probably been more general interest in Louis Armstrong of late due both to his prominence on the Ken Burns's jazz series early this year and to the celebration of his centennial. (And we get to celebrate his centennial twice—his actual birth date was August 4th, 1901, but until recently it was thought to be July 4th, 1900.) Last year Columbia issued a box set of his revolutionary Hot 5's and 7's sides from 1925-28.
Less noticed, perhaps, was JSP's two CD set of his 1930-32 big band sides. After recording the better known Hot Five and Hot Seven sides, he began performing as a trumpet and vocal soloist in front of big bands. He really only fronted the bands; they were actually led by others. The bands were not really outstanding, but the emphasis was clearly centered on Armstrong. Also around this time, he started adding more popular songs to his repertoire of jazz and blues.
This excellent two CD set from JSP has over two hours of Armstrong's virtuostic playing. He had an unsurpassed technical ability, and was inventive, imaginative and full of emotion. His vocals had similarities to his trumpet playing, but they were especially sincere, honest and direct.
Highlights here include his trumpet solos on the fast tempo "Tiger Rag" and on "The New Tiger Rag" from two years later. He's also impressive on "Georgia On My Mind" and "Stardust," both by Hoagy Charmichael.
Some of the vocal highlights include "Confessin' (That I Love You)" and "Love, You Funny Thing," both with interesting scatting, and expressive renditions "Body and Soul" and "Lazy River." "Chinatown, My Chinatown" is a novelty tune with a musical argument between Louis and the saxophone section.
This budget-priced release has excellent remastering by John R.T. Davies and six pages of recording information and notes on the sessions.
— Alan Lankin, March 2001
Release Date: 28 November 2000
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last update 25 March 2001