Description:
These cuts are from one night stands at halls and stadiums in West Germany, California, New York and Michigan Imagine trying to swing or even play well under those circumstances. No wonder some of Kenton's studio recordings sounded as if they should be played in cathedrals. Contrast that with the energy of the 29 selections that make up these two CDs. These road bands would never have been allowed into the studio. They're alive, free and airy, pouring out enough energy to light a city. The soloists have time and space to explore their ruminations, cutting in and out of the wall of accompanying sounds, like voices shouting into the wind. It's Kenton at his very best, because that was the way most of us first heard him and fell in love with his music. |