Control Booth Series Vol. 1: 1940-41 Review

07/13/2005 6:18 AM, AMG


Strictly for completists, this Storyville CD has 25 performances but just ten separate songs; 15 are alternate takes. Slightly more complete than an Affinity box set that covered the 1940 selections, this release surprisingly leaves out one version of "Loveless Love." The music, particularly the originally released versions, is excellent; Lady Day is in fine form, and there are some solos from trumpeter Roy Eldridge, Benny Carter (on clarinet), tenorman Georgie Auld, pianist Teddy Wilson and (on the final session) tenor saxophonist Lester Young. Among the tunes are "I Hear Music," "St. Louis Blues," "Let's Do It" and "Romance in the Dark." Most collectors would be satisfied with just having the regular versions, but one can appreciate slight differences in each rendition, particularly from the soloists. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide