Search - Kenny Burrell :: Blue Muse

A wonderful summing up of a lifetime in jazz

Jan P. Dennis | Monument, CO USA | 04/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This remarkable disc continues a string of exceptional jazz recordings by old guys: Homage, by James Moody; African Magic, by Abdullah Ibrahim; In Search of Momentum, by Ahmad Jamal; Go: Organic Orchestra, by Yousef Lateef.Believe it or not, Kenny Burrell has almost a hundred (ninety-six, to be exact) recordings as leader to his credit, and another two hundred as sideman.Quite a legacy, and one not to be gainsaid.And this disc is entirely enjoyable, with its deep and authentic jazz/blues sensibility. Burrell's playing--soulful, nuanced, and burning where appropriate--exhibits a glorious maturity amazingly undiminshed by his advanced age (72 at the time this was recorded). Which just goes to show, the great ones keep on producing, even into their twilight years.He also sings on four numbers, exhibiting an entirely creditable, smoky, blooze-drenched baritone. No, he's not in a league with Mel Torme or Joe Williams, but there's an affecting, heartfelt naivete to his vocals. I personally would prefer that he didn't sing--he's got such a great instrumental vibe going which, for me, is slightly compromised, diluted, whatever, by his singing--but he's certainly respectable as a crooner.Essential mainstream jazz."

Velvet Fingers!

Tim Withee | 07/26/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I went to see Mr. Burrell's show last night and bought his CD. At 72, this fine gentleman is playing at his best. Being a jazz guitar player myself, I just wish that one day I could achieve Mr. Burrell's level. His musical integrity, original style, sense of swing, and impeccable technique are a feast for jazz guitar lovers. I give 5 stars to this CD. Highlights to the originality of Sherman Ferguson and the solid performance of Roberto Miranda."

Hear Kenny Sing!

Ben Fernandez | Boston, MA | 10/25/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I'm breaking with the pack on this one. I love Kenny Burrell; he is one of the greatest jazz guitarists who has ever lived. But this cd is very different than his other cd's. Not only does he sing on this cd, but he even takes the Monk classic 'Round Midnight, adds lyrics to the song, and sings that song too. I guess its new, creative and different; but I must be a traditionalist because I couldn't listen to it."