Search - Joe Turner :: I Inderstand

Joe Turner the pianist

B. D. Tutt | London, UK. | 02/14/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Joe Turner (1907 - 1990) was a fine stride pianist, constantly confused with Joe Turner the blues singer. This CD, recorded in 1979 in Bern, Switzerland, provides a good record of Turner the all-round entertainer. Just three tracks, "Echoes of Spring", "Carolina Shout" and Turner's original, "Michelle" are solo: the remaining tracks feature Turner's vocal talents. He had an attractive voice, varies the pace effectively, and accompanies himself skilfully. Recording quality is good - the piano is a little tinny, but no worse than many of the instruments that jazz pianists have to put up with. Not as essential as the hard to find "An Evening With Joe Turner" CD on the Downtown label, this is an enjoyable disc that stride lovers will want to have."