Search - Al Hirt :: "Al Hirt - All-Time Greatest Hits, Vol. 1"

CD documents Hirt's extraordinary musical range

01/25/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of my fondest childhood musical memories is listening to the Al Hirt ablum "Man With The Horn", featuring the grammy winning "Java." That particular tune was, and still is fun to listen to, and now my 3 small children dance around the room when I play it for them. It's an immediately accessible tune that speaks volumes about Hirt's approach to music: fun loving, relaxed, and technically outstanding. Al's playing undoubtedly had an impact on me, as I went onto acquire a life long passion for the trumpet as both a player and music collector.It wasn't until I wresteled with the trumpet myself for a number of years until I truly acquired an appreciation for Hirt's artistry and outstanding musicianship, as beautifully documented on this "Greatest Hits" CD. His range of interpretation and chops as a player are in fine display. I believe his diverse talent is a function of his classical training on trumpet, joined with a love of the music native to his home town of New Orleans. The CD starts out with a thoroughly enjoyable rendition of "Bourban Street Parade played by Hirt's dixie-land combo in a live setting. The CD then moves onto an outstanding performance of the trumpet standard "I Can't Get Started." These two selections alone demonstrate Hirt's unbelievable ability to execute flawlessly in two very different styles. Another highlight is "Stranger in Paradise", which shows off his world class technical abilities and legendary lung power. I feel Al Hirt is often overlooked when legendary trumpeters are discussed, which is unfortunate. As a musician he was top notch technically in his prime, while also being a master interpreter of song. This is a combination that is often hard to come by and shouldn't be underestimated.Thanks Al for your role in giving me a life long passion for music!"

He IS The Greatest !!

jake@bsc.net | Niceville, Florida | 01/13/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"From many times and many places, this is a great collection.A very good mix of New Orleans jazz,ballads with strings,and great show tunes.Only one small problem,... all cuts were made on wax and the time was limited .I would love to hear extended versions of most of these numbers."

A giant talent

Kent Slocum | Mishawaka, IN | 08/11/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"To hear Al Hirt's music again gives me pleasure all over again. Haven't had a decent turntable in years, and I'm now beginning to replace old lp's with cd's. Talk about a throw back - but, that's how it is with us old music loving geezers. This album is tops! Slow ballads or Dixie - Al Hirt is a master!"