Sunday, March 21, 2021

Sunday Music Muse Day - Baden Powell, Charlie Byrd

This Sunday Music Muse Day is the day after Spring Equinox, the astronomical first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.  It's shaping up to a be perfect spring day for walk in the sunshine and spring flowers are just starting to peek out. My two selections are perfect of settling into patio chair, or cosy window seat with a good book. First up is Baden Powell Lembrancas (Memories), this solo recording is his last made less then six months before he passed away on September 16, 2000. (I'll refer you this link for a full review, since the liner notes are all in Brazilian (?) - Baden Powell: Lembranças) I knew of Baden Powell as legend in the Samba jazz of the 60's and 70's, but only have a couple of tunes on jazz guitar compilation CD sets. This set is very warm introspective. If you want to relieve stress in a most calming way, give this a try.  It is very nice. I'll be visiting this CD often. (I also think the photos of him are impressive)






My second selection is Charlie Byrd - The Guitar Artistry of Charlie Byrd. This legendary guitarist is also well known for his association with Brazilian music. His collaboration with Stan Getz on the album Jazz Samba in 1962 introduced Bossa Nova to American audiences. This 1960 session pre-dates Byrd trip to South America in 1961 where he was introduce to Bossa Nova. It's nice to uncover an interest fact like this.  One note: it's mention in the liner notes by Willis Conover the shorter pieces were "ideal for improving the space between commercials, assuming commercial radio station still leave space between commercials." Willis Conover was a jazz producer and broadcaster on the Voice of America for over forty years. Now you know.





So, you can't go wrong with these excellent legends of jazz guitar.  Spring is here, enjoy.


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