April in Paris [Verve]

Read About This Recording

In the mid-1950's Count Basie was on a roll and his big band was becoming more popular each month. One reason was this classic album which includes Basie's famous version of April In Paris and such future standards as Frank Foster's Shiny Stockings and Freddie Green's Corner Pocket. This CD reissue augments the original ten songs with seven previously unheard alternate takes, including new versions of April In Paris and Corner Pocket. With fine arrangements by Wild Bill Davis, Neal Hefti, and Ernie Wilkins and such soloists as trumpeters Thad Jones and Joe Newman and the tenors of Frank Wess and Frank Foster, along with the definitive Basie rhythm section, the Count Basie Orchestra had no close competition when it came to swinging up a storm, even at slower tempoes. A highly recommended set.

-Scott Yanow

Contents

April in Paris*; Corner Pocket*; Didn't You?*; Sweetie Cakes; Magic; Shiny Stockings; What Am I Here For?*; Midgets*; Mambo Inn; Dinner With Friends; Magic*.

(*Orig. & Alt. takes)

Count Basie, Piano; Sonny Payne, Drums; Eddie Jones, Bass; Freddie Green, Guitar; Benny Powell, Bill Hughes, Henry Coker, Trombones; Thad Jones, Joe Newman, Reunald Jones, Wendell Culley, Trumpets; Charlie Fowlkes, Frank Foster, Frank Wess, Bill Graham, Marshal Royal, Reeds.