Another reason this piece really swings and charges along is due to drummer Andrew Hilaire's tasteful but powerful drumming.
It sounds like he hardly uses his cymbals at all, but that could be because of the recording technology of the time. Nevertheless, their absence allows for full appreciation of the other instruments, whose solos and ensemble work are powerfully driven by his spot-on bass drum tempo. Without accompanying cymbal work, this is not easy to do.
Still - after more than 50 years' listening to this great music - this is absolutely one of my top three favourite groups and, in particular, this piece as well.
Jelly was right to have his groups rehearse over and over; this could not be a tighter performance. Any faster and it falls all over itself, any slower and it sounds dirge-like.
For all he has been criticized and lampooned for some of his remarks and conduct, Jelly really has to be included in the pantheon of Jazz Greats.
The Chant is, without a doubt, my very favorite Red Hot Peppers recording. George Mitchell, one of the most underated cornet players in jazz history, does an amazing job as always, as does the great Johnny St. Cyr.
An appreciable number of admirable recordings were accomplished by Jelly Roll in the course of his career, and from among them The Chant is my favorite.
Fine cornet work, as always, by George Mitchell, one of the musicians of that era who just didn't get the recognition and acclaim he deserved.
Another reason this piece really swings and charges along is due to drummer Andrew Hilaire's tasteful but powerful drumming.
It sounds like he hardly uses his cymbals at all, but that could be because of the recording technology of the time. Nevertheless, their absence allows for full appreciation of the other instruments, whose solos and ensemble work are powerfully driven by his spot-on bass drum tempo. Without accompanying cymbal work, this is not easy to do.
No cymbals = superb version!!
Urbino237 1 year ago
Still - after more than 50 years' listening to this great music - this is absolutely one of my top three favourite groups and, in particular, this piece as well.
Jelly was right to have his groups rehearse over and over; this could not be a tighter performance. Any faster and it falls all over itself, any slower and it sounds dirge-like.
For all he has been criticized and lampooned for some of his remarks and conduct, Jelly really has to be included in the pantheon of Jazz Greats.
Urbino237 1 year ago
Wonderful.! Just wonderful ! I agree with the previous comments.
Thank you for sharing.
Corrie121 1 year ago
Another classic! Thanks Bob.
Clive.
MoleDFigg 2 years ago
Simply superb! Three minutes of glorious music that is right up there with Louis' "West End Blues".
phyllodendron 2 years ago 4
The Chant is, without a doubt, my very favorite Red Hot Peppers recording. George Mitchell, one of the most underated cornet players in jazz history, does an amazing job as always, as does the great Johnny St. Cyr.
HepCat215 3 years ago 5
An appreciable number of admirable recordings were accomplished by Jelly Roll in the course of his career, and from among them The Chant is my favorite.
Fine cornet work, as always, by George Mitchell, one of the musicians of that era who just didn't get the recognition and acclaim he deserved.
lt059 3 years ago 2
Simply the best!!
Jazzbobill 3 years ago