Dive into the heart of classic jazz with "With Shelly and Ray," a captivating album by the legendary Barney Kessel, released on January 29, 2016, by ZYX Music. This reissue brings together a powerhouse trio featuring Barney Kessel on guitar, Ray Brown on bass, and Shelly Manne on drums, all of whom were voted top in their respective categories in the 1950s. Originally recorded in 1961, this album is a testament to the incredible musicianship and chemistry between these three jazz greats.
Spanning just over 41 minutes, "With Shelly and Ray" is a concise yet powerful collection of jazz standards and original compositions. The tracklist includes timeless pieces like "Little Susie," "The Duke," and "Misty," as well as lesser-known gems like "Doodlin'" and "The Golden Striker." Each track showcases the trio's impeccable timing, harmonic sophistication, and dynamic interplay, making it a standout in the cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop genres.
The album's high-quality reissue ensures that the original tone and energy of the recordings are preserved, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the nuanced performances. Whether you're a longtime fan of Barney Kessel or a newcomer to his work, "With Shelly and Ray" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.
Vinylscout