1958
To Swing or Not to Swing Vol 3
| 1. Begin The Blues |
| 2. Lousiana |
| 3. Happy Feeling |
| 4. Embraceable You |
| 5. Wail Street |
| 6. Indiana |
| 7. Moten |
| 8. Midnight Sun |
| 9. Contemporary Blues |
| 10. Don't Blame Me |
| 11. 12th Street Rag
The answer to the world-class trivia
question "Name the guitarist who played with Artie Shaw, Lester Young, Charlie
Parker, and Chico Marx," Barney Kessel's unusual discography is testimony to his
versatility and professionalism. Born in Muskogee, he followed in the
professional footsteps of fellow Oklahoman Charlie Christian and evinced a
similarly unswerving dedication to swing. Although his later recording
frequently paired him with fellow guitarists Charlie Byrd and Herb Ellis, these
1955 West coast recordings showcase Kessel as both a soloist and leader in
medium combos. A tribute to swing style music, To Swing or Not to Swing
mixes Kessel originals with such standards of that era as "Indiana," "Moten
Swing," "Louisiana," and "Embraceable You." On board are trumpeter Harry Edison,
saxophonists Georgie Auld and Bill Perkins, drummer Shelly Manne, and pianist
Jimmy Rowles. Among the album's most outstanding tracks are Kessel's own "Begin
the Blues," and a dreamy reading of Lionel Hampton's "Midnight Sun." A real find
for guitar fanatics and West coast jazz fans alike. --Fred Goodman
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