AudioCircle
Music and Media => The Jazz Circle => Topic started by: jhm731 on 26 Mar 2013, 06:26 am
-
What are your Best Sounding Jazz Recordings?
-
Al Di Meola - Kiss My Axe
Miles Davis - Amandla hi-res 24/192
-
Art Davis - A Time Remembered (DVD-A)
-
Cannonball Adderly – Somethin’ else (SACD Blue Note Reissue)
Gerry Mulligan meets Ben Webster - MoFi (Redbook)
Sonny Rollins – Way out West (SACD)
Flim & the BB's - Tricycle (SACD)
Yellow Jackets - Lifecycle (SACD)
Oliver Nelson – The Blues & Absolute Truth – Analogue Productions (SACD)
Hank Jones – Great Jazz Trio July 6th – Live at Birdland (SACD)
Diana Krall - Love Scenes (SACD) (IMO the best sounding Krall)
To name a few....
-
I'm curious as to what the OP considers a "good" recording? Soundstaging? Imaging? Low noise? Just wondering because this is good information for me too since I'm just starting to get into jazz and would love to know what the criteria are.
I love how Dave Brubeck's Time Out sounds on my system. And of course, Miles Davis's Kind of Blue.
-
I find myself addicted to several of the Analogue Productions and ORG 45rpm vinyl jazz records. So far they are all pretty amazing. My current favorite is Charles Mingus - Ah Um.
-
I prefer modern jazz (as in recent), personally, and a lot of it is very well recorded. One that I've been in love with for a while is:
Peter Erskine - The Interlochen Concert
Here's the entire album free for listening on Grooveshark! :D: The Interlochen Concert (http://grooveshark.com/#!/album/The+Interlochen+Concert/7089118)
(http://ww1.prweb.com/prfiles/2010/10/04/4606214/gI_0_2_TheInterlochenConcertCover.jpg)
-
The Individualism of Gil Evans (Verve).
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=77771)
-
With all these lists, I am glad I have access to something like Rhapsody (iTunes, whatever u use...) so I can listen to the type of music a group plays. If I like the music, then I will buy the whole album. Too many times I hear from people who bought what was reported as a great sounding album, only to not like the music. Buy what you like!!!!
I do that for these lists, or reviews in publications like ToneAudio, Stereophile, etc. Great way to learn about new music.
-
Jim -
Is that the original cut or a later 'audiophile' remastering/reissue?
I like Gil and have had good luck with older Verve pressings.
Gene
The Individualism of Gil Evans (Verve).
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=77771)
-
Just the regular Verve bought new and taken good care of.
-
Sony Legacy Recordings- Simply Stunning
http://www.legacyrecordings.com/a/#/home/
EXAMPLE of two
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=77773)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=77775)
-
Jim,
If you're a Gil Evans fan, you should check this out:
(http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT-KTeBmz1jIzPhqIX4GCKJN2udEjMkOV2W3uPtLeRiZR4vGLYmmA)
Had the pleasure of hearing Gil and his Monday Night Orchestra at Sweet Basil.
-
Thank you, Maestro. I will . .
I guess everyone knows of Evans contribution to Miles' Sketches of Spain?
-
If they don't you should enlighten them. :wink:
I guess everyone knows of Evans contribution to Miles' Sketches of Spain?
-
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=77779)
Gil and Miles collaborated on Sketches of Spain from music written by Rodrigo. The music took the jazz world, and a few other ones, by storm. Miles plays what might be played on Spanish guitar. Gil gives him wonderful, uplifting background with just enough instrumental dissonance to let you know this is jazz and blues. Don't let that turn you off if you don't know this music. It's lovely in any language or form. If I am not mistaken, it's Columbia's best selling album ever. Everybody should own this.
-
If Sketches of Spain is 'difficult' to grasp a good lead in to the Miles - Gil partnership is the album "Miles Ahead +19" which I listened to just the other day. Miles playing superbly with a jazz orchestra behind him.
The 2 also collaborated on "Porgie and Bess", also worth owning.
-
Jim,
If you're a Gil Evans fan, you should check this out:
(http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT-KTeBmz1jIzPhqIX4GCKJN2udEjMkOV2W3uPtLeRiZR4vGLYmmA)
Had the pleasure of hearing Gil and his Monday Night Orchestra at Sweet Basil.
jhm- Thanks for your post. I have Gil Evans at Sweet Basil on vinyl but can't tell from the info on Amazon what tunes are on this recommendation of yours. Can you share? Thanks.
-
jhm- Thanks for your post. I have Gil Evans at Sweet Basil on vinyl but can't tell from the info on Amazon what tunes are on this recommendation of yours. Can you share? Thanks.
Jim, see:
http://www.allmusic.com/album/centennial-newly-discovered-works-of-gil-evans-mw0002387999
-
Wow. That's quite an interesting label. Never heard of this fellow who arranged and made the disc of Evan's tunes, but my hat is off to him. Did hear some nice bits at the site. Christian McBride and Sting knocked me out. Sting can sing jazz very nicely. What was that song in the movie Leaving Las Vages he did? Man, he does it wonderfully. Thanks.
It was Angel Eyes. I looked it up.
-
The best sounding jazz recording I've ever heard is a Direct to Disc LP from 1976 on the East Wind label, titled "The Three". As you would expect it's a jazz trio which consists of Joe Sample, Ray Brown and Shelly Manne. Unlike many such audiophile recordings this one has superb performances of very engaging music. It was later re-issued as a standard LP (not D2D), but that version is a poor representation of the original. When the D2D LP is played on a high end system, most listeners are literally shocked at the dynamics and overall quality of the sound being recreated. Highly recommended if you can find a good copy! :thumb:
-
The best sounding jazz recording I've ever heard is a Direct to Disc LP from 1976 on the East Wind label, titled "The Three". As you would expect it's a jazz trio which consists of Joe Sample, Ray Brown and Shelly Manne. Unlike many such audiophile recordings this one has superb performances of very engaging music. It was later re-issued as a standard LP (not D2D), but that version is a poor representation of the original. When the D2D LP is played on a high end system, most listeners are literally shocked at the dynamics and overall quality of the sound being recreated. Highly recommended if you can find a good copy! :thumb:
I have that one and must play it tonight. Thanks.
-
I have that one and must play it tonight. Thanks.
That's it. That's all I can take. Next time my wife and I head to Houston to visit the in laws, I'm taking my suitcase and headed straight to Jim's place- moving in until I'm done listening to all of the gazillion rare lp's in his collection. My wife can collect me on the way back home. I'm guessing it will take about 5-8 days of listening. Are you ready for houseguest, Jim?
-
Is a bean green? I would enjoy your company and playing music, as always. But, I can't accomodate you. Can we get together for a day or evening? I hope the answer is yes.
-
Jimbo, I was tuggin' at your leg a bit there :jester:, but I will let you know the next time I'm down your way to see I we could spin a few one evening. I'll bring the vino. Besides, I'm actually one of those lucky guys that enjoy their in-laws and look forward to seeing them.
-
88 Basie Street XRCD
Bug Music Don Byron
Invitation to Openness Les McCann
That's How We Roll Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band
-
An evening sounds fabulous. Bring two bottles, eh? Looking forward to it.
-
88 Basie Street XRCD
Bug Music Don Byron
Invitation to Openness Les McCann
That's How We Roll Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band
Konut's gettin into some of the avant garde what with Don Byron and That's How We Roll is huge fun.
-
Just happened to be listening to one of the classic great recordings of electronica/jazz from Flim and the BB's
(http://images.artistdirect.com/Images/Sources/AMGCOVERS/music/cover200/drc400/c467/c46723fx250.jpg)
-
I really like almost every thing on the ECM label.
Not only do I love the whole aesthetic of Manfred Eicher of choosing artists that refuse to be pigeonholed by genre, but the recording quality on most ECM releases is great.
The style of most ECM tends to be progressive without being 'free jazz'. Most of them are not typical jazz "head-solo-head" format with the other players accompanying the soloist. They integrate the solos into the entire texture of the music. During solos, the other players maintaine their own integrity both independently of, and in dialog with, the soloist
They were recorded on great equipment, with hardly any processing, and pressed on great quality vinyl. I have a few that were reissued on CD, and they took care to get them 'right'.
They are quiet, dynamic, image extremely well, with a deep soundstage.
-
:thumb:
-
I really like almost every thing on the ECM label.
Not only do I love the whole aesthetic of Manfred Eicher of choosing artists that refuse to be pigeonholed by genre, but the recording quality on most ECM releases is great.
The style of most ECM tends to be progressive without being 'free jazz'. Most of them are not typical jazz "head-solo-head" format with the other players accompanying the soloist. They integrate the solos into the entire texture of the music. During solos, the other players maintaine their own integrity both independently of, and in dialog with, the soloist
They were recorded on great equipment, with hardly any processing, and pressed on great quality vinyl. I have a few that were reissued on CD, and they took care to get them 'right'.
They are quiet, dynamic, image extremely well, with a deep soundstage.
Cool Simoon. Could you recommend any specific albums on the ECM label? For reference, I like Dave Holland, Kurt Elling, Peter Erskine, Bill Evans, Ahmad Jamal, Kenny Burrell, etc.
TIA, mate.
-
Cool Simoon. Could you recommend any specific albums on the ECM label? For reference, I like Dave Holland, Kurt Elling, Peter Erskine, Bill Evans, Ahmad Jamal, Kenny Burrell, etc.
TIA, mate.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78084)
Here's a darn good Dave Holland one. Don't think any of those other cats you mentioned have recorded for ECM.
-
Thanks Jim! Actually, I was just describing my current jazz tastes so as to give a sense of what might be an appropriate recco re: ECM stuff. But this'll do nicely! :thumb:
-
Downloading Manu Katché's Third Round in 24/88 right now. Psyched! Love his work, and Pino Palladino is on bass. YES!
-
My reference discs:
New York Reunion on Chesky label - with Tyner, Foster, Carter, and Henderson. Al Foster's sound is finally captured!
Dear Miles - Ron Carter, Stephen Scott, Payton Crossley, and Roger Squitero
Folk Art - Joe Lovano and Us5
and speaking of Dave Holland:
Birds of a Feather - Roy Haynes
World Trio - Cinelu, Eubanks, and Holland
-
I am constantly amazed by the recordings that Roy DuNann engineered for Contemporary Records. I have an original pressing of The Poll Winners with Barney Kessel, Ray Brown, and Shelly Manne and it sounds fantastic. Others I have on Contemporary and would recommend:
You Get More Bounce With Curtis Counce - Curtis Counce Quintet (I believe it was originally released as Councelation)
West Side Story - Andre Previn and His Pals Shelly Manne & Red Mitchell
All Night Session! (There are three volumes, I have 1 & 2 on vinyl and you can get all three on an OJC CD) - Hampton Hawes
Art Pepper Meets the Rhythm Section - Art Pepper
Way Out West - Sonny Rollins
Contemporary had some great musicians recording for them and Roy did an outstanding job capturing the sound.
-
I am constantly amazed by the recordings that Roy DuNann engineered for Contemporary Records. I have an original pressing of The Poll Winners with Barney Kessel, Ray Brown, and Shelly Manne and it sounds fantastic. Others I have on Contemporary and would recommend:
You Get More Bounce With Curtis Counce - Curtis Counce Quintet (I believe it was originally released as Councelation)
West Side Story - Andre Previn and His Pals Shelly Manne & Red Mitchell
All Night Session! (There are three volumes, I have 1 & 2 on vinyl and you can get all three on an OJC CD) - Hampton Hawes
Art Pepper Meets the Rhythm Section - Art Pepper
Way Out West - Sonny Rollins
Contemporary had some great musicians recording for them and Roy did an outstanding job capturing the sound.
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
-
Best Jazz recording there is:
http://www.sa-cd.net/showtitle/3957 This SACD had a stunning lifelike musical presence, in fact some Jazz clubs I attend in the past were much worse sound than this recording, even being live music, due many people talk, drinks etc
Second place Jazz at Pawnshop:
http://www.sa-cd.net/search/jazz+at+pawnshop
-
Could you recommend any specific albums on the ECM label?
Charles Lloyd on ECM...good stuff. :wink:
"The Water Is Wide" (http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-water-is-wide-mw0000616873)
"Lift Every Voice" (http://www.allmusic.com/album/lift-every-voice-mw0000226270)
"Jumping the Creek" (http://www.allmusic.com/album/jumping-the-creek-mw0000249513)
"Sangam" (http://www.allmusic.com/album/sangam-mw0000720903)
All are best for late night - quiet time listening... :wink:
-
Also on ECM
- anything by Eberhard Weber
- Timeless - John Abercrombie
- any ECM Ralph Towner or Oregon album
- Pat Metheny/Lyle Mays - As Falls Wichita, So Falls Wichita Falls
- Miroslav Vitous - Universal Syncopations
- anything by Egberto Gismonti
- Jan Garbarek - Witchi-Tai-To
-
Also on ECM
- anything by Eberhard Weber
- Timeless - John Abercrombie
- any ECM Ralph Towner or Oregon album
- Pat Metheny/Lyle Mays - As Falls Wichita, So Falls Wichita Falls
- Miroslav Vitous - Universal Syncopations
- anything by Egberto Gismonti
- Jan Garbarek - Witchi-Tai-To
+ Terje Rypdal :thumb:
-
Thanks for the ECM reccos, Wolf, Bob, & Arthur.
So much music, so little time.... :)
-
Also on ECM
- anything by Eberhard Weber
- Timeless - John Abercrombie
- any ECM Ralph Towner or Oregon album
- Pat Metheny/Lyle Mays - As Falls Wichita, So Falls Wichita Falls
- Miroslav Vitous - Universal Syncopations
- anything by Egberto Gismonti
- Jan Garbarek - Witchi-Tai-To
Roberto, hi. Just wanted to add 2 cents for Witchi Tai To. The longest composition, Desireless, by Don Cherry in particular. I suppose Garbarek's playing is an acquired taste and one that fails to acquire me, but the album's trio playing- Bobo Stenson, in particular- is a diamond in the rough on this cut. Never fails to involve me.
-
More ECM picks (not mentioned)... :wink:
Keith Jarrett (piano)... http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-k%C3%B6ln-concert-mw0000188364
Collin Walcott (sitar)... http://www.allmusic.com/album/cloud-dance-mw0000188793
Marc Johnson (bassist)... http://www.allmusic.com/album/bass-desires-mw0000188234
I see Anazon has a LIST.... (http://www.amazon.com/ECM-SOUND-15-DEFINITIVE-ALBUMS/lm/RDIVTUIWOD0S4) ...nice picks as well..
-
Just to add some info to my post above. The bass player on this date is Palle Danielson and the drummer is Jon Christenson. Very skilled and imaginative players of their instruments and so good together with Stenson they will mesmerize you. You should hear Desireless on your main system undisturbed or be square.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78746)
-
Mahalo for keeping this thread going.
Agree 100% with the outstanding quality of ECM recordings, wish
they'd start putting out more of their stuff in HiRez.
Another great sounding label to check out is Smalls Live.
Here's some other new stuff I like:
Chick Corea/Eddie Gomez/Paul Motian, Further Explorations (Concord)
Dave Douglas, Be Still (Greenleaf)
Art Pepper, Blues for the Fisherman(Pure Pleasure)
Jim Hall, Live at Birdland(ArtistShare)
Brookmeyer's Standards, (ArtistShare)
Centennial: Newly Discovered Works of Gil Evans(ArtistShare)
-
well I'm sorta stunned right off the bat that nobody said anything about Bitches Brew!!! If you don't own a copy, then get your hands on one! It's a learning experience that must be listened to for hours upon hours. Probably the single most studied recording by jazz musicians of all time.
Now I'm also a fan of Sketches In Spain, but also like Tutu. Can recommend the Mulligan/Baker recordings to everyone. Count Basie small groups are usually killers, and one can never go wrong with Duke Ellington stuff
gary
-
...and one can never go wrong with Duke Ellington stuff.
Right... :thumb:
Three good ones....
"Masterpieces By Ellington" (http://www.amazon.com/Masterpieces-Ellington-Duke/dp/B003W77SDK/ref=sr_1_33?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573250&sr=1-33&keywords=duke+ellington)
"Money Jungle" (http://www.amazon.com/Money-Jungle-Duke-Ellington/dp/B0000691U1/ref=sr_1_13?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573230&sr=1-13&keywords=duke+ellington)
"Far East Suite" (http://www.amazon.com/Far-East-Suite-Duke-Ellington/dp/B0000C8AOZ/ref=sr_1_25?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573250&sr=1-25&keywords=duke+ellington)
-
Right... :thumb:
Three good ones....
"Masterpieces By Ellington" (http://www.amazon.com/Masterpieces-Ellington-Duke/dp/B003W77SDK/ref=sr_1_33?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573250&sr=1-33&keywords=duke+ellington)
"Money Jungle" (http://www.amazon.com/Money-Jungle-Duke-Ellington/dp/B0000691U1/ref=sr_1_13?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573230&sr=1-13&keywords=duke+ellington)
"Far East Suite" (http://www.amazon.com/Far-East-Suite-Duke-Ellington/dp/B0000C8AOZ/ref=sr_1_25?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1366573250&sr=1-25&keywords=duke+ellington)
I used to have a friend that was seriously into big band music, and he'd set down with an LP and literally take it apart. Tell you about the musicians and what to listen for. Dick was kinda grouchey all the time, but knew his music. Lost him right before Christmass four years ago. Dick introduced me to another guy that was a tenor sax player with Duke, and this guy could really get it done!
If I sat down and started to make a list of must haves in jazz, I'd be there all day! Some are kinda obscure and some are well known. I really like the Pablo jazz series recordings, and just have not found a bad one to this very day! And trust me they did some serious stuff! ECM redordings are generally excellent, and worth the listen. My favorite ECM recording is Standards in Norway Vol. II. Good stuff! I also like Chick Corea, and just about anybody that plays with him. My favorite clairnetest with out a doubt was Alvin Batiste (New Orleans). Didn't record much, but could he play. The best current clairnetest is Frank Glover by a long mile. My drummer would be Brian Blade of the current crop, but Elvin was better. I've got the chance to listen to a lot of good bass players over the years, but my favorite is still Marc Johnson just for the way he attacks the neck alone. The best was Scott LaFaro.
gary
-
I really like the Pablo jazz series recordings, and just have not found a bad one to this very day! And trust me they did some serious stuff!
+1
-
(http://player.ecmrecords.com/uploads/garbarek/cover.jpg)
One of my Favourites on the ECM label, a superb live recording
-
How about these:
Jim Hall - Concerto
Ralph Towner - any of his solo stuff
Michael Hedges - Strings of Steel
Philippe Saisse - Valerian (a bit electronic, but very well done)
Miles/Gurtu - very electronic, but amazingly good musically and sonically
-
One of my favorites...
Burt Bacharach
Casino Royale [1967] [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]
amazing dynamics :)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85280)
-
Must mention a couple of live in the studio Mapleshade CD's: "Sound Roots" by Andy McKee and NEXT, and "Datevik", a Russian jazz singer who can bring it with the Larry Willis quartet shoveling the coal. Nobody recording digitally gets more live-in-the-room sound than this recording engineer and label owner, Pierre Sprey. You must buy direct at the Mapleshade website. And, turn these muthas up! I don't think you can distort them.
-
The Andy McKee and the Casino Royale just mentioned are top notch, audiophile recordings.
I also recommend the Manhattan Jazz Quintet's Autumn Leaves for amazing dynamics.
-
Here are a couple of my favorites,
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85305)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85306)
-
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85333)
-
Here's another that I was literally weened on by my parents in the mid 1960's on an old tube base consul that we tossed in the trash sometime in the late 70's/early 80's. :duh: Come to think of it these are the first jazz recordings that I ever herd. Must be why I love the genre so much! :D
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85335)
-
More ECM releases worth getting:
Art Ensemble of Chicago - these guys are more on the avant-garde side of jazz, with a bit of free jazz, so they may be an acquired taste, but they are recorded great.
Full Force and Nice Guys are the ones to get. Many fans consider Full Force their most accessible, so this might be the one to start with.
The opening track of Full Force begins with a few minutes of various persuasion instruments that can be used for evaluating soundstage and imaging. Really impressive 3d stuff.
I agree with anything by Eberhard Weber. The Colours of Chloe is close to genius.
Enrico Rava - The Pilgram and the Stars. With the great John Abercrombie on guitar. This one kills!
Ralph Towner - old Friends, New Friends. Great lineup on this one. Kenny Wheeler on trumpet, Eddie Gomez on bass, David Darling on cello.
Azimuth with Ralph Towner - Depart. Norma Whinstone's wordless singing makes for a tranquil but eerie listen.
I really also like Terje Rypdal's stuff. 'Whenever I Seem to be Far Away' with the Sudfunk orchestra is a personal favorite, but it is not exactly jazz. It sounds more like King Crimson inspired prog in the context of 20th century classical.
Same with Keith Jarrett's 'The Celestial Hawk'. Not really jazz, more like 20th century classical. but great nonetheless.
-
The Andy McKee and the Casino Royale just mentioned are top notch, audiophile recordings.
I also recommend the Manhattan Jazz Quintet's Autumn Leaves for amazing dynamics.
Oops, it's My Funny Valentine that has the amazing dynamics, although the Autumn Leaves is pretty good also.
(http://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_250/MI0002/877/MI0002877639.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)
-
Scott turned me onto that. It's a burner with some intense sound.
-
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CXJauTl4L.jpg)
Recorded live by his wife Chan on his own portable tape recorder at a fund raising event. Lots of background noise, people talking, tinny piano. His solos make that all fade to silence, leaving the essence of jazz at its peak.
-
I'm sure it is awesome but you mention several significant flaws with the sound and the original premise was "Best Sounding Jazz Recordings". I am more than willing to listen to a less-than-stellar recording if the performance is good enough too, but it's kind of a different premise.
Some others mentioned the label but I would like to reiterate: Practically anything released on ECM.
Kind of Blue.
Sonny Rollins "The Bridge", although it is kind of "ping-pong" stereo.
A couple of lesser-known but great sounding records, both on my all time favorites list:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85404)
Great, innovative modern big band music with dynamics galore:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=85405)
For that matter, I'm pretty damn impressed with both the performance and the sound on the album I just listened to for the first time tonight, "Hot House" by Chick Corea and Gary Burton.
-
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CXJauTl4L.jpg)
Recorded live by his wife Chan on his own portable tape recorder at a fund raising event. Lots of background noise, people talking, tinny piano. His solos make that all fade to silence, leaving the essence of jazz at its peak.
Nicely put, Rich. Very nicely.
-
This is pretty sweet..
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=91850)
-
dbCooper had it right. For sound quality alone (though I also like a lot of their substantive content), anything from ECM.
-
I chose 5 live albums, and to get off the beaten path of albums we all know only too well, I put these 3 albums from the small but highly acclaimed Sound Liaison label on top, but also because I really do think they are superior in sound quality, even when compared to ECM's Keith Jarrett.
Bobby Timmons ''in Person'' is an old favorite with a prominent Ron Carter right in the middle of the sound stage, and no I don't think that my LP's sounds better than these hi-res downloads. I wish they did but ....that is life. On the plus side I would probably not have discovered these wonderful ''young'' musicians if I had been stuck with only listening to my vast collection of L.P's
1. Batik; the old Man and the Sea. (http://www.soundliaison.com/images/BatikHoes300shad.png)http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
2. Paul Berner; Road to Memphis. (http://www.soundliaison.com/images/PaulBandMilan300.png)http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
3. Carmen Gomes Inc.; Thousand Shades of Blue
(http://www.soundliaison.com/images/SSS1Milan300.png) http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
4. Keith Jarrett; Somewhere http://www.hdtracks.com/somewhere-live-in-lucerne-2009 (http://www.hdtracks.com/somewhere-live-in-lucerne-2009)
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/hdtrack_img/HD00602527663708_185.jpg)
5. Bobby Timmons Trio ( LP)
(http://eil.com/images/main/Bobby+Timmons+-+In+Person+-+EX+-+LP+RECORD-534351.jpg)
-
Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers Live at Keystone 3 on the Concord Jazz label is pretty alive from an audience standpoint. Or, should I say sittingpoint. The entirety of the band, the stage, the audience and club ambience is all there. You should be, too. I think this album is readily available from the usual sources. Side two, start to finish would be my recommendation. Do listen to this pretty loud. Concord Jazz recordings are typically more polite than, say, Blue Note.
-
Jim, see:
http://www.allmusic.com/album/centennial-newly-discovered-works-of-gil-evans-mw0002387999
I am familiar with the "Barbara Song" and it is lovely.
-
That's nice, K.F. Real nice.
Kenny Barron Quintet "Live at Fat Tuesdays" (enja);
Andrew Hill Sextet "Point of Departure" (Blue Note);
Chick Corea Quartet "Three Quartets" (Warner Bros);
Art Blakey "Free For All" (Blue Note);
Joe Henderson Quartet "So Near, So Far" (Verve);
Joe Harriott Quintet "Free Form" (Gott).
That last one is by Ornette Coleman's contemporary in Britain around the same time, in the late 50's. There was an article about him in TAS just a few issues ago. It's available on CD if you're interested. That's how I have it bought just a couple years ago.
But, now, of these albums and many more, there is ONE tune that continues to draw me in no matter when and how often I listen to it and turns me every which way but loose and it's the opening track of the Andrew Hill album. He is the eye of the hurricane, his hurricane as its composer, and when he solos or comps chords against the grain of its winds and waves, his bandmates and soloists are soooo responsive. You can and hopefully will hear and feel this. Drummer Tony Williams, a mere kid at the time, is marvelous on this track. If you have never heard this phenom on drums, you will know PDQ why Miles Davis hired him. He responds to what a player is doing and what he is about to do as instantly as light travels in time.
Knowledgeable fans will appreciate the players on this. Richard Davis on acoustic bass, for example, who contributes so beautifully to Laura Nyro's best album, imo, tho I can't remember the name of it as I type. Chris, help me out.
-
If you like the E.C.M. stuff you should check out the band called E.S.T.
All of their albums sound really good but I kind of like this one in particular :
]
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98190)
(ftp://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98190[/img)
-
If you like the old school vocal jazz but are getting a little tired of listening to Sinatra, check out this one from Bobby Caldwell :
]
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98192)
(ftp://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98192[/img)
-
If you like a world beat flavor and dig the live sound, this one should be in your rotation :
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98198)
-
Looking for more of a crowd pleaser, but still very high quality sound? This one by Tom Scott and Friends will do it :
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98193)
-
Quiet Earth . . where have you been?? Gimme directions to your house. I promise to bathe.
-
Also, check out some albums by Dr. Lonnie Smith. The dude has been around forever. Some of the most heartfelt and soulful jamming I have ever heard, and outrageously good sound quality too. Not sure if it qualifies as blues or jazz, but it won't matter when you hear it. You will dig it!
That's enough for now....... :D
-
Quiet Earth . . where have you been?? Gimme directions to your house. I promise to bathe.
How about if I don't take a shower and we can stink it up together! :lol: too funny Jim......
-
OMG! I almost forgot this one. Kenny Werner, Balloons. Buy this one now. You won't regret it!
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98199)
I promise to stop now. :D
-
Also, check out some albums by Dr. Lonnie Smith. The dude has been around forever. Some of the most heartfelt and soulful jamming I have ever heard, and outrageously good sound quality too. Not sure if it qualifies as blues or jazz, but it won't matter when you hear it. You will dig it!
That's enough for now....... :D
Well, ok, then, Q. Kindly recommend one. I know I'd like your first three rec's and here I thought you were milk toast :duh:. So misgiven I am it would seem. Gladly.
-
Just to be a bit different, I chose 5 live albums, and to get off the beaten path of albums we all know only too well, I put these 3 albums from the small but highly acclaimed Sound Liaison label on top, but also because I really do think they are superior in sound quality, even when compared to ECM's Keith Jarrett.
Bobby Timmons ''in Person'' is an old favorite with a prominent Ron Carter right in the middle of the sound stage, and no I don't think that my LP's sounds better than these hi-res downloads. I wish they did but ....that is life. On the plus side I would probably not have discovered these wonderful ''young'' musicians if I had been stuck with only listening to my vast collection of L.P's
1. Batik; the old Man and the Sea. (http://www.soundliaison.com/images/BatikHoes300shad.png)http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
2. Paul Berner; Road to Memphis. (http://www.soundliaison.com/images/PaulBandMilan300.png)http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
3. Carmen Gomes Inc.; Thousand Shades of Blue
(http://www.soundliaison.com/images/SSS1Milan300.png) http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
4. Keith Jarrett; Somewhere http://www.hdtracks.com/somewhere-live-in-lucerne-2009 (http://www.hdtracks.com/somewhere-live-in-lucerne-2009)
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/hdtrack_img/HD00602527663708_185.jpg)
5. Bobby Timmons Trio ( LP)
(http://eil.com/images/main/Bobby+Timmons+-+In+Person+-+EX+-+LP+RECORD-534351.jpg)
........... this one should be on my list as well.
6.Eliane Elias/Marc Johnson; Swept Away
(http://seattlemusicinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Swept-Away1.jpg)
Swept Away sees the top-class quartet of pianist Eliane Elias, double-bassist Marc Johnson, drummer Joey Baron and saxophonist Joe Lovano commune over music that is engaging and sensual, lyrical and swinging. Brazilian-born star Elias previously joined ECM veterans Baron and Lovano on Johnson s 2005 ECM album, Shades of Jade, which reaped praise far and wide. The New York Times enthused over the luminescence created by the close partnership between Elias and Johnson, while The Village Voice said the album was shimmering yet its lusciousness has all sorts of tensile strength. The same words suit Swept Away, which includes a brace of melody-rich Elias compositions, ranging from the easy-flowing title track to the smoky romanticism of Be Is for Butterfly and after-hours vibe of It s Time. Johnsons brightly grooving, Eastern-tinged When the Sun Comes Up is another highlight, and the album closes with Johnson s solo bass treatment of the old American folk song Shenandoah. Swept Away is music of depth that is disarmingly easy to love.
-
Well, ok, then, Q. Kindly recommend one.
I think Jungle Soul has a really good mix of blues and Jazz. But I like most Dr. Lonnie Smith albums, so it's hard for me to choose. The majority of his latest recordings offer stellar sound quality.
There is an 1992 album by Jimmy Ponder called "To Reach A Dream" which features Dr. LS, and that one is more of a neat and tidy jazz album. It sounds really good if you crank it up a bit. It is not recorded at modern "hot" levels. Rudy Van Gelder did that one.
-
........... this one should be on my list as well.
6.Eliane Elias/Marc Johnson; Swept Away
(http://seattlemusicinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Swept-Away1.jpg)
Sorry the Eliane Elias is not a live album.
But this one is;
(http://pixhost.me/avaxhome/2007-05-09/2hughmg1.jpg)
Hugh Masekela Hope
This is one great sounding album!
Just got the CD, 16/44, but it has depth, placement and seems to me very good dynamic range as well.
Highly recommended!
-
Uma Batida Differente by Bossacucanova.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98792)
-
+1 for Bossacucanova! That's a great record! I own 5 of their records. Just got their latest; 'Our Kind Of Bossa' last month featuring many of Brazil 's best singers. Their formula of mixing ol' skool instrumentation and modern electronics via DJ makes their recordings a sonic feast. Especially rewarding when listening thru earphones!
-
Bet it sounds good on those Spendors too............ :dance:
-
You got that right! There's not much that doesn't sound great thru my Spendor's! Regardless of music genre or amplification (solid state or tube, although I prefer tube!). Vinyl, CD, MP3, or tape! Only the lousiest recording or severely poorly pressed vinyl, which will sound bad on any system. I've heard plenty of great speakers, but I've been more than satisfied with my S100's for over 20 years!
-
Great thread, many fantastic recordings already have been mentioned. Out of the stuff I listen to and consider best sounding, here's a few that I haven't seen:
Chad Wackerman - Dreams, Nightmares and Improvisations
The New Gary Burton Quartet - Common Ground
Tomas Ornberg's Blue Five feat. Kenny Davern
Patricia Barber - Nightclub
Jazz at the Pawnshop has already been mentioned, but that must be the best live recording I have heard.
To be honest, jazz has really been blessed with high quality recordings. There's really plenty of choice to enjoy great music in very good quality.
-
I have the Japanese Version of THE BOBBY TIMMONS TRIO.I bought in Philadelphia at 3rd Street Jazz (now defunct)
-
Bill Evans has some recordings that I really enjoy, notably, Sunday at the Village Vanguard, Waltz for Debbie and the two duet albums with Tony Bennett.
-
International internationalphonographic.com
This label has a website so I expect they are still in business. "Rendevoux" is one of their releases tho I don't know if it is obtainable as I didn't see it on their site, but you should find out. I did see some interesting things, however. It's a jazz piano- Richard Beirach- and acoustic bass- George Mraz- duo and it's one of the most musically beguiling and wonderful sounding recordings I own or have ever heard.
Don't let the word jazz put you off. This one is romantic and the sound is SOTA harmonically pure.
If you can access it online, listen to track 2 to sample.
This one I want to play for God when my time comes and all will be forgiven, I'm pretty sure.
-
The latest from the little Sound Liaison label is very very impressive, they just keep getting better.
Live and full of atmosphere, not like the previous albums live in the studio but live in a Hi -Res audio shop.
Highly recommended;
(http://www.soundliaison.com/images/tony-bert-300v1.jpg)
http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
And reading the liner I find it the extraordinary sound quality even more impressive;
Tony and Bert at Rhasody
The room was filled to the brim with audio enthusiasts, the closest listener being just a few feet from the musicians and the microphones.
When the audience is so close to the musicians, a synergy occurs. The audience becomes part of the music making and help spur the musicians on to great heights.
The musicians feeling the empathy from the audience dare to take chances that one rarely hears in a studio recording.
Tony and Bert had not performed together as a duo before, and no rehearsal had taken place prior to the Rhapsody concert, but the music these two masters of improvisation created that sunny afternoon in Rhapsody, is simply breathtaking.
The recording conditions were not ideal. The doors in the back of the room were opened several times by people trying to squeeze in, making the sound from the espresso machine in the hall and the DJ playing ambient music in the garden faintly audible at the beginning of each set. Later halfway through the concert the windows of the room had to be opened for air. The DJ turned off his music but he was immediately replaced by the sound of birds singing.
If listening closely one can hear them, chime in, in the quiet parts.
(http://www.soundliaison.com/images/bert_en_tony_6.jpg)
-
I recently bought CDs from these two small labels and the recording quality is noticeably higher than many others:
Jazz Legacy Productions
http://jazzlegacyproductions.com/
Smoke Sessions
http://smokesessionsrecords.com/
-
Hi - I am a newbie here but heavily into jazz recordings and playing. I recently acquired a SACD player so renewed interest in discs. Some that I found had clear and present sound with good separation and soundstage (some probably listed here already):
- Chick Corea Trio - Triology (normal CD) - really great sounds cross the tracks
- Chick Corea - Rendezvous in NY (SACD 5.1) - nice use of surrounds. need to watch setting on your sub
- Rosa Passos & Ron Carter - Entr Amigos (hybrid SACD 2 channel) - really luscious Latin tracks
- Patricia Barber - A Distortion of Love (hybrid SACD 2 channel) - really clear and like you are there
- Getz/Gilberto (SACD) - amazing it was recorded so long ago
- Ralph Towner/Paolo Fresu (guitar and trumpet - normal CD) - a find in the used $3 CD bin. Very mellow and present
-
Dr Lonnie Smith Too Damn Hot
-
I pretty much like almost every thing release from the ECM label
-
Alma Records Presents: One Take, Volume 1
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=123564)
-
Jazz at the pawnshop.a classic
-
I notice that ECM gets a lot of mentions, I find them a bit on the heavy side for me, but I agree that the recording quality is top class. If you are of the same mind try anything on the AC T label, again the recordings a superb but they are a bit easier to get into.
Try
Lento Youn Sun Nah
Alter Ego. Yarn Herman
Seven Teares. Christian Muthspiel 4
Also
Jags Jazzist Live With Britten Sinfonia. Different but worth a listen.
-
For digital recordings, check out the MAPLESHADE catalog online. I have 3 or 4 and the sound is full bodied and alive.
-
One of my favorite good-sounding jazz albums is Joey DeFrancesco's Ballads and Blues on the Concord label. There's a really great version of Lee Morgan's Ceora, featuring Gary Bartz on alto, that sounds wonderful on a good system.
(http://direct.rhapsody.com/imageserver/images/Alb.287683/500x500.jpg)
-
(https://img.discogs.com/wSMkHCicdddXHskba5hxWNKI4Ys=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-2835561-1396038712-6387.jpeg.jpg)Peter Erskine trio; As It Is
-
If I may quote you PA from the live recording thread....this album deserves wider recognition;
It has arrived....fantastic DXD recording, the sound is sensational. Highly recommended.
(http://www.soundliaison.com/images/CSTB200shadowv3.png)
http://www.soundliaison.com/ (http://www.soundliaison.com/)
It is a very impressive album indeed.
From the first note of the opening track you just know that this is going to be a great listening experience. A true audiophile recording but also just a great album in it's own right.
High point for me is God Bless the Child with that fabulous bass introduction.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf_S2l3Y_lM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf_S2l3Y_lM)
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Kf_S2l3Y_lM/maxresdefault.jpg)
-
+1 for Bossacucanova! That's a great record! I own 5 of their records. Just got their latest; 'Our Kind Of Bossa' last month featuring many of Brazil 's best singers. Their formula of mixing ol' skool instrumentation and modern electronics via DJ makes their recordings a sonic feast. Especially rewarding when listening thru earphones!
Great to hear the tradition of good sounding Brazilian Bossa Nova albums is being carried forward.
-
48 hours left on the special introduction price;http://www.soundliaison.com/studio-showcase-series/276-carmen-gomes-sings-the-blues (http://www.soundliaison.com/studio-showcase-series/276-carmen-gomes-sings-the-blues)
If I may quote you PA from the live recording thread....this album deserves wider recognition;It is a very impressive album indeed.
From the first note of the opening track you just know that this is going to be a great listening experience. A true audiophile recording but also just a great album in it's own right.
High point for me is God Bless the Child with that fabulous bass introduction.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf_S2l3Y_lM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf_S2l3Y_lM)
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Kf_S2l3Y_lM/maxresdefault.jpg)
-
Great to hear the tradition of good sounding Brazilian Bossa Nova albums is being carried forward.
Check out Brazilian music. They record well too. One name that comes off the top of my head - lousy memory with names - is Rita Ribeiro. Love Rosa Passos, though she tends to record too many slowwwwwww songs.
-
I adore Rosa Passos, A good place to start is the Amorosa album. I have the CD. It is well recorded. I would love to have that in a higher resolution.
-
I'd like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this thread so far. Stellar advice, and tons of material to discover and enjoy. Just blew the bank at Amazon so I could hear some good sounds instead of that compressed Pandora signal I usually have on (which is actually half-decent much of the time). Yeah, I spent a fair bit but hey...Jeff Bezos needs all he can get, right?