Charlie Parker: Bird: Motion Picture Soundtrack

Most of the tracks are up-tempo, including a delighted nightclub audience as a part of the scenery. And, isn't that the way it was with Parker? Everyone sat up and took notice. No one could keep still when the maestro performed. He was a pepper-upper who charged everyone around him with considerable energy.

Jon Faddis and McPherson kick off "Ko Ko" in ensemble, and Parker immediately takes the solo by force. He moves fast and furious. Faddis and Walter Davis, Jr. then turn out blazing solos to match. Undoubtedly, both were charged-up for the occasion, by Bird's remarkable solo. The ensemble finishes by trading around the room. It's vintage bebop.

Ballads, such as "April in Paris," provide a sensual affair. Niehaus enlisted a large string orchestra with oboe soloist, graceful harp, and such. Red Rodney and McPherson lead off "Now's the Time" in tandem with a deliberate tempo. Parker's lush solo leads to a refreshing trumpet solo, which is followed by another Davis piano solo, before the ensemble closes it out. It's bebop at its best. "Parker's Mood" closes out the soundtrack with an intimate quartet offering, enhanced by strings. This is Bird at his best.

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