Search - Larry Adler :: Reat Larry Adler

The variety exceeded my expectations. The quality met them.

10/03/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This cd has been fun. I expected excessive exhibition, but I instead find it entertaining and worth listening to over and over. The number and variety of tracks far exceeded my expectations. There are 24 tracks ranging from technically mastered classical (i.e. Bolero and Hungarian Dance #6) to soulful sassy and bluesy (i.e. Duke Ellington Selection, George Gershwin Selection, St. Louis Blues, Blues in the Night, Stormy Weather,etc., etc., etc., etc.)Hand to Mouth Boogie, of Adler's own composition, is exceptional and has me wishing only that there were more Adler tunes here.A couple notes on what I learned of Adler's style. I have read literature which exaggerated his ability to transform the harmonica into other instruments. Yes, he achieves the brass and string sounds as well or better than any other "harp" player I've heard (all of which are deftly demonstrated in Rhapsody in Blue). His range is superior. However he is clearly playing the harmonica. There is muted wa-wa-style comedy in much of the jazzy numbers, and infrequent raspy chords (to Adler's credit). Adler is clearly having fun. His playing seems faultless yet comfortable, not at all forced. I applaud his ability to play and bend the high notes equally as well as the low. He plays every note of the scale without any hint of restriction. He doesn't hide the harmonica. He elevates its capabilities. I think harmonica lovers will love this cd repeatedly as I have, including blues fans. However, others may be truly entertained in one sitting, and then tire of the emphasis on harmonica."

Another Great 1930's Larry Adler Collection

peter krampert | eharmonica.net | 01/06/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Larry Adler was the viruoso harmonica player who elevated the harmonica from an istrument for hobos and shoe-shine boys, to an instrument that should be appreciated by white-tied Classical music lovers. During his lifetime Adler inspired hundreds to take up the instrument and he had over a dozen concert pieces composed especially for him. His impact on the harmonica can not be overestimated.This CD contains a nice selection of recordings that Adler made during the 1930's. Mostly pop tunes, this collection also features his landmark recordings of Gershwin's "Rhapsody In Blue" and Ravel's "Bolero". Both of these recordings inspired rave kudos from the composers.The only drawback to Adler's 1930's recordings are brought about by recording limitations of the era. Fidelity is limited and recordings were all too short in length. Overall though, these recordings are amazing to listen to. Adler's showmanship coupled with his technical expertise is equal to any other master instrumentalist that has recorded during the 20th century.I strongly recommend this CD."