Charlie Byrd: For Louis

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: April 1, 2000

Recorded only months before he passed away last year, Charlie Byrd’s final recording project was a tribute to Louis Armstrong. Joe Wilder sits in to represent the lyrical side of Armstrong’s sound, holding on to the natural phrasing that has influenced nearly every jazz trumpeter since. Byrd’s nylon string classical acoustic guitar and Wilder’s mellow tone blend perfectly alongside a veteran piano trio.

Saxophonist Steve Wilson starts off the session with a soprano saxophone characterization of Sidney Bechet on "Petite Fleur." Since the tribute is for Louis Armstrong, melody takes center stage throughout. Byrd was in fine form for this session. Like Armstrong, he never considered retirement seriously. The guitarist introduces two bossa nova arrangements with "Indian Summer" and "Struttin’ With Some Barbecue." Somehow, the change from tradition seems to fit perfectly. Recommended, Byrd’s final project offers homage to two very fine gentlemen.

Track Listing: Petite Fleur; Remembering Louis Armstrong; A Kiss to Build a Dream On; Autumn in New York; Hello Dolly; Tin Roof Blues; Soft Lights and Sweet Music; A Child is Born; Struttin

Personnel: Charlie Byrd- guitar; Robert Redd- piano; Dennis Irwin- bass; Chuck Redd- drums; Joe Wilder- trumpet; Steve Wilson- soprano saxophone, alto saxophone.

Record Label: Concord Music Group
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream