This is one of my favorites from Von Freeman's "Lester Leaps In" album. This tune is a cover of a very old song that was initially done by an a cappella group from the early 1900s. It eventually was covered by guys like Rudy Vallee and Bing Crosby. Here, Vonski gives it a deliciously swingin' bop turn that I'm sure its originators never envisioned. But that was part of the greatness of Von... he would take these obscure tunes and give them a brand new life and meaning. For those of us who were fortunate enough to see Vonski do his thing live here in my beloved Chicago, the memories of the way he played and carried on with the audience will never leave us. His sound was instantly recognizable, even to someone without a great ear for tone variation. Vonski's sound was truly unique and he was one of the reasons why I refer to Chicago as "my beloved hometown". Since his passing on 08/11/2012, I have been playing the albums I own by him almost exclusively and non-stop. I have chosen this tune to post because I believe that it properly displays the joyful way that Von swung. I also want to point out that Jodie Christian, who played piano on this recording, was also an extremely talented and cherished individual here in Chicago who passed away this year as well. So it is an especially rough time for Windy City jazz lovers as we have lost two of our most beloved heroes. In summation, I just want to say that I hope everyone who listens to this clip enjoys it as much as I do and for all Chicago jazz fans to drink a toast in the near future to the memory of Vonski and Jodie. Boppish regards to all.
Lineup:
Von Freeman - tenor sax
Jodie Christian - piano
Wilbur Campbell - drums
Eddie de Haas - bass
6 сен 2024
