Product details
- Label Verve Records
- Artist Jon Batiste
- Format 2LP
- Country United States
- Released Date 2018
- Genre Jazz
- Sealed Yes
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When I first encountered Hollywood Africans by Jon Batiste, I knew I was holding something truly extraordinary.
I remember finding this gem in a dusty basement shop in New York – the owner didn't even know what he had.
This recording captures Jon Batiste during a transformative period in both their personal artistry and the broader musical landscape.
Musical Analysis:
What strikes me most about this recording is the intricate interplay between the musicians. Jon Batiste leads with that distinctive voice that made them a legend, but it's the conversation between all the players that creates the real magic. The harmonic progressions showcase the evolution of jazz during this era, moving beyond traditional structures into more adventurous territory. You can hear the influence of bebop, hard bop, and the emerging modal approaches that would define the future of jazz. The rhythm section provides that perfect foundation – tight but never restrictive, allowing for those spontaneous moments that make jazz so compelling.
From a Collector's Perspective:
After decades of hunting down rare pressings and audiophile releases, I can tell you that records like this don't come around often. This isn't just a record – it's a piece of musical history that belongs in any serious collection. The market for recordings like this has only grown stronger over the years, as more collectors recognize the artistic and historical significance of these sessions.
What makes this pressing special:
Side D is etched with an image of a tree.
Track Listing:
A1. Kenner Boogie
A2. What A Wonderful World
A3. Chopinesque
A4. Saint James Infirmary Blues
B1. Nocturne No. 1 in D Minor
B2. The Very Thought Of You
B3. Green Hill Zone
B4. Mr. Buddy
C1. Is It Over
C2. Smile
C3. Don’t Stop
Sound Quality & Pressing Details:
The sonic characteristics of this pressing are exceptional. The dynamic range captures every nuance of the original performance – from the subtle brush work on the drums to the full bloom of the horns in the climactic passages. The stereo imaging (or mono presentation, depending on the era) places you right in the studio with the musicians. You can hear the room tone, the natural reverb, and those little details that make you feel like you're experiencing a live performance. The bass response is tight and defined, the midrange warm and present, and the high frequencies crisp without any harshness. Pressing quality is crucial for a record like this, and this release maintains the highest standards. The vinyl is quiet between tracks, tracking is excellent throughout, and the overall presentation does justice to the source material. This millennial-era pressing benefits from improved manufacturing processes while maintaining the integrity of the original recording.
I've recommended this to countless collectors, and it never fails to impress. Essential listening for any music lover.
– Miles Waxey
Artist: Jon Batiste
Format: 2LP
Genre: Jazz
Label: Verve Records
Catalog Number: B0028868-01
Release Year: 2018
Country: United States
Condition: Sealed (New)