Count Basie At Newport

Experience the electrifying energy of the 1957 Newport Jazz Festival with Count Basie at the helm in "Count Basie At Newport." This historic live album captures the legendary big band leader and his orchestra in their prime, delivering a swinging set that showcases the best of jazz, swing, and big band music.

The album kicks off with an introduction by the renowned John Hammond, setting the stage for a performance that unites Count Basie's contemporary band with some of its most iconic alumni. The result is a festive and dynamic concert that harkens back to the golden age of jazz in the 1930s.

Throughout the 13 tracks, Count Basie and his ensemble deliver timeless classics and upbeat originals, including "Swingin' At Newport," "Polka Dots And Moonbeams," and "One O'Clock Jump." The setlist is a masterclass in big band arranging and improvisation, featuring stellar performances from jazz greats like Jimmy Rushing, Lester Young, and Roy Eldridge.

Recorded live at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1957, this album is a testament to Count Basie's enduring legacy and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of swing and jazz. The 2004 reissue, part of the Verve Master Edition series, features pristine remastering and a deluxe foldout digipak design, ensuring that the music sounds as vibrant and exciting today as it did over six decades ago.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Count Basie or a newcomer to the world of jazz, "Count Basie At Newport" is an essential addition to any music collection. With its infectious rhythms, virtuosic performances, and timeless appeal, this album is sure to delight and inspire listeners of all ages.

Count Basie, born William James Basie, was a titan of jazz, renowned for his mastery of the piano and his innovative leadership of the Count Basie Orchestra. Hailing from Red Bank, New Jersey, Basie's journey began in the vibrant world of vaudeville before he formed his own big band in 1935, which would go on to define the swing era. His distinctive minimalist piano style and rhythmic genius made him a standout performer, while his band's use of split tenor saxophones and emphasis on the rhythm section set new standards in big band jazz. Basie's influence extended far and wide, collaborating with legends like John Hammond and performing at iconic venues such as the Apollo Theatre. With hits like "One O'Clock Jump" and "Blue Skies," Count Basie's legacy endures as one of the greatest bandleaders in the history of jazz, inspiring generations of musicians with his unique blend of blues and swing.