Marian McPartland's "Plays Music of Leonard Bernstein," released in 1960, is a captivating journey through the jazz and cool jazz genres, showcasing McPartland's mastery of the piano. This album, recorded on April 8th and 12th, 1960, features a collection of tracks that beautifully interpret the works of the renowned composer Leonard Bernstein. With a runtime of just over 36 minutes, the album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Bernstein's compositions, reimagined through McPartland's unique lens.
The tracklist includes a mix of well-known pieces such as "Somewhere" and "Maria," alongside lesser-known gems like "Lonely Town" and "I Can Cook Too." McPartland's deft handling of Bernstein's works is evident throughout, with her signature style bringing a fresh perspective to these classic compositions. The album also features contributions from guitarist Kenny Burrell, whose subtle and sensual playing complements McPartland's piano work perfectly.
"Plays Music of Leonard Bernstein" is a testament to McPartland's skill and versatility as a musician. Her ability to convey a wide range of emotions and moods through her playing is on full display here, making this album a standout in her discography. Whether you're a fan of jazz, cool jazz, or simply great music, this album is sure to impress.