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March 11, 1952: Guitarist Johnny Smith and tenor saxophonist Stan Getz record "Moonlight In Vermont."

Added: 2008-03-06 Johnny Smith's best-known album, 1952's MOONLIGHT IN VERMONT (also the title of his signature song), assured the guitarist a place in jazz history. While saxophone legend Stan Getz is a prominent guest on the record, and certainly threatens to steal the show on numerous occasions, the spotlight never strays too far from Smith, who easily entrances with his supremely laid-back style. Consisting almost entirely of standards, MOONLIGHT is ideal for lulling listeners to sleep (in the most pleasing sense), as Smith's spare, chiming six-string lines gently mesh with the subtle rhythmic backing and Getz's resonant sax playing, as revealed on lilting renditions of “Where or When” and “Stars Fell on Alabama.” Of course, the title track is the main attraction of the disc, garnering its reputation with gorgeously delicate work by the entire ensemble. The epitome of Smith's mesmerizing, soporific style of jazz, MOONLIGHT IN VERMONT is all that most listeners will need by this amiable artist.

Personnel includes: Johnny Smith (guitar); Stan Getz (saxophone); Stanford Gold (piano); Bob Carter (bass); Don Lamond (drums)

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More facts on this day:

• 1919
  Trumpeter and bandleader Mercer Ellington born in Washington, D.C.

• 1932
  Violinist Leroy Jenkins born in Chicago, IL.

• 1940
  Vocalist Al Jarreau born in Milwaukee, WI.

• 1950
  Vocalist Bobby McFerrin born in New York.

• 1952
  Guitarist Johnny Smith and tenor saxophonist Stan Getz record "Moonlight In Vermont."

• 1956
  Jimmy Smith records "The Champ" for Blue Note Records.

• 1980
  Clark Terry remembers his former boss on Pablo Records.

• 1985
  Pianist Kenny Barron records "Scratch" with bassist Dave Holland and drummer Daniel Humair.

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