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Vince Guaraldi: The Charlie Brown Suite & Other Favorites
Guaraldi's music for the Peanuts cartoons has been released on four albums: A Boy Named Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Oh, Good Grief! and most recently Charlie Brown's Holiday Hits. This album provides a different interpretation of the familiar songs.
The Charlie Brown Suite is a 39 minute recital of seven songs Guaraldi recorded in May of 1968 with Amici Della Musica, a chamber ensemble. Although the recording hall was a nightclub, the sound is that of a church concert. For a jazz album, the effect of the string arrangements is remarkably peaceful.
Three other recordings flesh out the album. "Linus and Lucy" is recorded with a brassy big band. I hope there is more to come from that session! "The Charlie Brown Theme" is apparently an alternate take from Guaraldi's 1969 Oh, Good Grief! session, which featured the harpsichord. The album closes with a nearly seven minute concert rendition of "Cast Your Fate to the Wind," on which guitarist Eddie Duran contributes valuable harmonic and rhythmic support.
This music is very accessible, and it should make an excellent Valentine's Day present to be enjoyed long after the chocolates and flowers are gone.
Track Listing
1. Linus and Lucy with the Band 2. The Charlie Brown Theme. The Charlie Brown Suite: 3. Intro with Linus and Lucy 4. Happiness Is 5. Peppermint Patty 6. Charlie Brown Theme 7. Rain, Rain Go Away 8. Red Baron 9. Closing 10. Cast Your Fate to the Wind
Personnel
Vince Guaraldi
pianoVince Guaraldi, piano; Amici Della Musica; Eddie Duran, guitar; Fred Marshall, bass; John Waller, Drums.
Album information
Title: The Charlie Brown Suite & Other Favorites | Year Released: 2003 | Record Label: Fantasy Jazz