COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA – BASIE AT BIRDLAND (2007)(FULL ALBUM)

Tracklist
00:00 1 Little Pony
Written-By – Neal Hefti
02:22 2 Basie
Written-By – Ernie Wilkins
05:45 3 Blues Backstage
Written-By – Frank Foster
10:44 4 Blee Blop Blues
Written-By – A.K. Salim
13:02 5 Whirly-Bird (Vocal Version)
Vocals – Jon Hendricks
Written-By – Neal Hefti
17:01 6 One O'Clock Jump (Theme)
Written-By – Count Basie
17:57 7 Good Time Blues
Written-By – Ernie Wilkin
24:37 8 Segue In C
Written-By – Frank Wess
33:56 9 One O'Clock Jump
Written-By – Count Basie
38:38 10 Easin' It
Written-By – Frank Foster
44:19 11 A Little Tempo, Please
Written-By – Neal Hefti
47:21 12 Corner Pocket
Written-By – Freddie Green
52:29 13 I Need To Be Bee'd With
Written-By – Quincy Jones
56:53 14 Discommotion
Written-By – Frank Foster
01:01:10 15 Segue In C (Alternate Take)
Written-By – Frank Wess
01:09:21 16 Whirly-Bird
Written-By – Neal Hefti
01:13:05 17 One O'Clock Jump (Theme)
Written-By – Count Basie

Alto Saxophone, Clarinet – Marshal Royal
Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Flute – Frank Wess
Baritone Saxophone – Charlie Fowlkes
Bass – Eddie Jones
Drums – Sonny Payne
Guitar – Freddie Green
Piano – Count Basie
Producer – Teddy Reig
Tenor Saxophone – Budd Johnson, Frank Foster
Trombone – Benny Powell, Henry Coker, Quentin Jackson
Trumpet – Lennie Johnson, Snooky Young, Sonny Cohn, Thad Jones

Recorded live on June 27 & 28, 1961 at Birdland, New York City

Label: Roulette Jazz – 0946 3 97449 2 3
Country: Europe
Released: 2007
Genre: Jazz
Style: Big Band

The Count Basie Orchestra 's 2007 album "Basie at Birdland" is a brilliant testament to the talent of one of jazz's most legendary orchestras, led by the iconic Count Basie. Although recorded in 1961 at New York's legendary Birdland club, this reissue clearly captures the magic of a live performance by the group, with all the swing, energy and precision that characterizes them.

Highlights :
Vibrant live sound : The atmosphere at Birdland club feels palpable; the applause of the audience, the interaction with the musicians, and the dynamics of the orchestra create an immersive experience. It’s a reminder of the importance of jazz as a music of both performance and live connection.

Repertoire Selection : The album includes several classics that showcase the richness of Basie's repertoire, from melodic pieces to swinging, rhythmic numbers. Songs like "One O'Clock Jump" and "Corner Pocket" are perfect examples of the balance between subtlety and energy that defines the orchestra's sound.

The orchestra at its best : The Count Basie Orchestra demonstrates here its ability to handle both the most intricate arrangements and spontaneous improvisations. The horn section, in particular, shines with impeccable precision, while the rhythmic foundation holds everything together with an irresistible groove.

Production and Mixing : For a live recording from the 1960s, the sound quality is surprisingly good on this reissue. The remastering enhances the details without losing the authenticity of the live environment.

Points to consider :
While the album is a treat for traditional jazz aficionados and Basie fans, its nature as a historical document may not appeal as much to those seeking a more modern sound or stylistic innovations.

Conclusion :
" Basie at Birdland " is a must-see for any lover of classic jazz. This album not only celebrates the genius of Count Basie and his orchestra, but also encapsulates a magical moment in the history of live jazz. An experience that combines elegance, technique and the pure joy of swing.

Ideal for those looking to rediscover the essence of jazz in its most authentic setting.

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