Dive into the rich tapestry of jazz history with Shorty Rogers' "Early Skylark and Tampa EPs," a captivating collection of tracks that span a variety of jazz styles, from cool jazz and exotica to big band and hard bop. Released in 2017 by VSOP Records, this album is a testament to Rogers' versatility and mastery as a musician and bandleader.
The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Jimmy Giuffre, Milt Bernhart, Frank Patchen, and Howard Rumsey, among others. With a runtime of just over 54 minutes, the album packs a punch with its diverse tracklist, which includes both original compositions and well-known standards. From the sultry "You Know I'm in Love with You" to the upbeat "Sweet Georgia Brown," and the classical-inspired "Choppin' up Chopin," each track showcases the band's exceptional skill and creativity.
"Early Skylark and Tampa EPs" is not just a collection of songs, but a journey through the evolution of jazz. The album's title refers to the Skylark and Tampa record labels, which were known for their innovative and boundary-pushing jazz releases in the 1950s and 1960s. Shorty Rogers, a key figure in the West Coast jazz scene, was a frequent collaborator with these labels, and this album serves as a tribute to that era.
The album's production quality is top-notch, with each instrument and vocal clearly audible, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the musicianship on display. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a casual listener, "Early Skylark and Tampa EPs" is sure to delight and impress. So sit back, relax, and let the smooth sounds of Shorty Rogers and his band transport you to a bygone era of jazz innovation and excellence.
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