In this live concert session from Chicago in 1962 Louis Armstrong performs a crowd-pleasing set, packed with the “greatest hits” spanning his entire career. The listener is given an all-round impression of Louis as entertainer, vocalist and trumpet player.
This version of Louis Armstrong’s All Stars includes three “veterans” – trombonist Trummy Young, pianist Billy Kyle and drummer Danny Barcelona – plus two relative newcomers – clarinettist Joe Darensbourg and bassplayer Billy Conk. Clowning and entertaining aside, there is plenty of fine music on this CD, especially with the swinging piano playing of Billy Kyle and tasteful trombone work of trombonist Trummy Young – both of whom compliment Louis beautifully throughout and deliver some greats solos. Then there is Satchmo himself, serving up plenty of brilliant trumpet work, as well as moving vocals. When the music finally ends, the listener is left wondering if there would ever have been jazz music without Louis Armstrong |
