To Swing Or Not to Swing

Amazon.com
The answer to the world-class trivia question "Name the guitarist who played with Artie Shaw, Lester Young, Charlie Parker, and Chico Marx," Barney Kessel's unusual discography is testimony to his versatility and professionalism. Born in Muskogee, he followed in the professional footsteps of fellow Oklahoman Charlie Christian and evinced a similarly unswerving dedication to swing. Although his later recording frequently paired him with fellow guitarists Charlie Byrd and Herb Ellis, these 1955 West coast recordings showcase Kessel as both a soloist and leader in medium combos. A tribute to swing style music, To Swing or Not to Swing mixes Kessel originals with such standards of that era as "Indiana," "Moten Swing," "Louisiana," and "Embraceable You." On board are trumpeter Harry Edison, saxophonists Georgie Auld and Bill Perkins, drummer Shelly Manne, and pianist Jimmy Rowles. Among the album's most outstanding tracks are Kessel's own "Begin the Blues," and a dreamy reading of Lionel Hampton's "Midnight Sun." A real find for guitar fanatics and West coast jazz fans alike. --Fred Goodman

To Swing Or Not to Swing,Barney Kessel,Fantasy/Original Jazz Classics

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