Product details
- Label Verve Records
- Artist Louis Armstrong
- Format 1LP
- Country United States
- Released Date 2024
- Genre Jazz
- Sealed Yes
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Wonderful World: The Best Of Louis Armstrong by Louis Armstrong is the kind of album that reminds you why vinyl collecting became a lifelong passion from 2024 – this is one of those records that stopped me in my tracks.
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 Louis Armstrong 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. Louis Armstrong 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:
US and Canada Release on black vinyl of [m3608807]; Similar to [r31728197] on black vinyl but does NOT have "Made in Czech Republic" sticker on back sleeve shrink wrap. Instead has "Made In Canada 37548 13371" on shrink wrap.
[r31728197] has "Made In EU" on sleeve; this release has Broadway, New York, NY address on sleeve.
Contains Broadway, New York, NY address on labels, inner sleeve, and back outer sleeve.
Contains FBI Anti-Piracy Warning Logo on back sleeve.
Wonderful World: The Best Of Louis Armstrong on Labels.
A Verve Records / UMe Release. This compilation 2024 Verve Label Group, a division of UMG Recordings, Inc., 1755 Broadway, New York, NY 10019.
Distributed by UMG Commercial Services. All rights reserved. FBI Anti-Piracy Warning: Unauthorized copying is punishable under federal law.
Track Listing:
A1. A Kiss To Build A Dream On
A2. Hello, Dolly!
A3. Dream A Little Dream Of Me
A4. La Vie En Rose
A5. On The Sunny Side Of The Street
A6. When You're Smiling (The Whole World Smiles At You)
B1. Cheek To Cheek
B2. Cabaret
B3. It's Been A Long, Long Time
B4. They Can't Take That Away From Me
B5. Moon River
B6. Blueberry Hill
B7. What A Wonderful World
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. Modern pressing technology has allowed engineers to revisit the original master tapes with fresh ears and cutting-edge equipment, resulting in a sound quality that often surpasses earlier reissues.
Cultural Impact & Legacy:
Understanding the cultural significance of this recording requires looking beyond just the music itself. Louis Armstrong was working during a period when jazz was not just entertainment, but a form of cultural expression that challenged social norms and pushed artistic boundaries. This recording captures a moment in time when musicians were redefining what American music could be. The influence of this recording can be heard in countless albums that followed. Young musicians studied these performances, learning not just the notes but the approach, the attitude, the fearless creativity that defined this generation of artists. From an investment standpoint, recordings like this have consistently held their value and often appreciated significantly over time. But more importantly, this is the kind of record that changes how you hear music. It's an education in artistic excellence that never gets old.
If you're building a serious collection, this belongs on your shelf. I guarantee you'll return to this record again and again.
– Miles Waxey
Artist: Louis Armstrong
Format: 1LP
Genre: Jazz
Label: Verve Records
Catalog Number: 602465937398
Release Year: 2024
Country: United States
Condition: Sealed (New)
Frequently Asked Guestions
The condition of our vintage records varies, and we do our best to clearly state the condition of each record in its description. We rate them as 'Mint', 'Near Mint', 'Very Good', 'Good', or 'Fair', following the Goldmine Standard.
We understand the importance of ensuring our products reach you in the same condition they left us. Each record is packed using professional record mailers with additional padding. We also remove the record from its sleeve to prevent seam splits during transit.
Due to the unique nature of our inventory, we're unable to reserve items. All our records are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, we do buy vinyl records. If you're looking to sell, please send us a detailed list of what you have, including the artist, title, condition, and any other relevant information to hello@mileswaxey.com. We'll get back to you with a quote if we're interested.
Yes, we offer a return or exchange within 14 days of purchase if you're not completely satisfied with your record. The item must be in the same condition that you received it. Please note, return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.
Currently, our entire inventory is online. We do this to keep our prices competitive and to be able to reach vinyl lovers around the world. However, we're always looking for opportunities to connect with our customers in person, so follow us on social media for updates on pop-up events or potential future physical locations.