A unique opportunity inside the After-Hours world of Tatum
William J. Lavin | Kettering, OH United States | 07/23/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Throughout this series of releases of Art Tatum's live recordings, which included performances in clubs, radio broadcasts, TV appearances, we heard a different side of Tatum than his recordings for Decca, Capitol, Clef, etc.
This release is a totally different document. For over half of the CD, we hear home recordings of Tatum in an After-Hours club. He is totally relaxed, among friends, and is heard talking and singing! The second version of If You Hadn't Gone Away, and Aunt Hagar's Blues are alone worth the price of the CD!
Other gems are included in this CD, including recording from his home, on his Steinway. Also, there is a duo recording with Slam Stewart (their only time without a guitarist).
I wish there were more material like this. Regretably, this may be the last volume in this series of wonderful releases. Enjoy this while it is available.
"