BARNEY BIGARD 1944 (1996)(FULL ALBUM)

Tracklist
00:00 1 The Capitol International Jazzmen– Sugar
02:37 2 The Capitol International Jazzmen– Ain't Goin' No Place
05:41 3 The Capitol International Jazzmen– Someday Sweetheart
08:38 4 The Capitol International Jazzmen– That Old Feeling
11:23 5 Barney Bigard Trio– Tea For Two
14:43 6 Barney Bigard Trio– Steps Steps Up
18:11 7 Barney Bigard Trio– Steps Steps Down
21:26 8 Barney Bigard Trio– Moonglow
24:51 9 Zutty Singleton's Creole Band– Oh, Didn't He Ramble
27:41 10 Zutty Singleton's Creole Band– Crawfish Blues
30:46 11 Zutty Singleton's Trio– Barney's Bounce
33:25 12 Zutty Singleton's Trio– Lulu's Mood
36:06 13 Barney Bigard , Soloist With The Roger Kay Strings– A Portrait Of Louise
39:12 14 Barney Bigard , Soloist With The Roger Kay Strings– A Lull At Dawn
42:26 15 Barney Bigard , Soloist With The Roger Kay Strings– Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams
45:23 16 Barney Bigard , Soloist With The Roger Kay Strings– Soft And Warm
48:01 17 Etta Jones With Barney Bigard And His Orchestra– Salty Papa Blues
51:00 18 Etta Jones With Barney Bigard And His Orchestra– Evil Gal Blues
54:00 19 Etta Jones With Barney Bigard And His Orchestra– Blow Top Blues
56:38 20 Etta Jones With Barney Bigard And His Orchestra– Long, Long, Journey

Review

The album "Barney Bigard – 1944," released by The Classics Chronological Series, is a gem for lovers of classic jazz and, in particular, for those wishing to delve into the work of one of the most distinctive clarinetists of the swing era. Barney Bigard, best known for his work with Duke Ellington and his participation in Louis Armstrong's orchestra, presents himself here in a more personal and lesser-known light, leading his own sessions during 1944.

Historical Context
1944 was a pivotal year for both jazz and Bigard's career. In the midst of World War II, the American music industry was experiencing a period of change: a musicians' strike, recording restrictions, and the rise of big bands coexisted with the emergence of small combos and new forms of improvisation. Bigard, after his long tenure with Ellington, was in a period of transition, exploring his own sound and collaborating with top-tier musicians.

Sound and Production
The album's sound is warm and direct, with a production that, although limited by the technologies of the time, manages to capture the energy and spontaneity of the sessions. Bigard's clarinet stands out for its velvety tone and elegant phrasing, displaying impeccable technique and a melodic sensitivity that distinguishes him from other clarinetists of his generation.

The remastering of The Classics Chronological Series is remarkable: much of the background noise has been removed, and the fidelity is surprising for recordings over 80 years old. This allows us to appreciate details such as the interaction between the musicians and the subtleties of the rhythmic accompaniment.

Style and Influence
Bigard's style on this album is a perfect synthesis of the tradition of New Orleans jazz and the sophistication of 1940s swing. His clarinet, at times melancholic and at others playful, is capable of moving from lyrical passages to bursts of virtuosity without ever losing its musicality.

This album is also a testament to Bigard's influence on subsequent generations of clarinetists and saxophonists. His melodic approach, sense of improvisation, and ability to lead small groups make it an essential reference.

Historical and Artistic Value
"Barney Bigard – 1944" is much more than a simple collection of vintage recordings. It is a historical document that captures the spirit of an era and the evolution of a fundamental musician in the history of jazz. For collectors, it is an essential piece; for new listeners, a gateway to a sonic universe full of nuances and emotions.

Conclusion
Ultimately, this album is a celebration of Barney Bigard's talent and the richness of 1940s jazz. The selection of tracks, the quality of the performance, and the meticulous remastering make "Barney Bigard – 1944" a must-listen for any fan of the genre. It's an album that invites both detailed study and simple enjoyment, and one that continues to sound fresh and relevant despite the passing of the decades.