Often overlooked, yet undeniably unique.
Mark R. Limacher | 10/19/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Bill Potts is a name one doesn't come across with the same frequency as others (Gil Evans, Stan Kenton, etc.) in the world of large ensemble jazz repertoire. Part of this may be a result of his aesthetic, which is readily identifiable upon listening. Whereas his arrangements are not as groundbreaking as someone like Evans, they'll always remain a guilty pleasure as far as I'm concerned. This double album is an interesting pairing, and although the majority of you looking at this item are interested in the Porgy and Bess, I urge you to look at the Bye Bye Birdie as well. Potts' treatment of the Strouse score makes for interesting comparison when put against the original cast recording. In some cases, the orchestrations are more or less left intact (often with some alteration) such as How Lovely To Be A Woman. In others, a vastly different (and often surprising) interpretation exists, such as Put On A Happy Face. In any event, this makes for enjoyable listening, and should be heard for historical context at the very least."
Wow, this is what jazz is all about`
Martin Benom | Huntington Beach, CA USA | 02/16/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is outrageous. The musicians are in top form and the output has never been matched. You cannot believe the range and flavor of Porgy and Bess. If the voices were human rather than instrumental they could not convey the story as well. Get this before it is gone. Time passes and human beings pass away and if you don't listen to this right now it would be a shame."
Track Listings (23) - Disc #1