Airmail Special: a Salute to the Big Band Masters

Album Description

Step into the golden age of jazz with Louie Bellson's "Airmail Special: A Salute to the Big Band Masters," a tribute album that captures the essence of the swing era's most iconic figures. Released in 1990, this album is a testament to Bellson's virtuosity as a drummer, composer, and arranger, showcasing his deep respect and admiration for the big band legends who paved the way.

Each track on "Airmail Special" is a dedication to a different jazz luminary, from the lightning-fast bebop of Dizzy Gillespie to the smooth elegance of Duke Ellington. Bellson's masterful drumming and meticulous arrangements bring fresh life to these classic tunes, while the album's stellar lineup of performers, including Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, adds an extra layer of authenticity and charm.

The album kicks off with "Airmail Special," a high-energy tribute to Lionel Hampton, and takes listeners on a journey through the decades with stops at the innovative sounds of Benny Goodman, the lyrical brilliance of Bunny Berigan, and the powerful swing of Tommy Dorsey. Along the way, Bellson pays homage to his own mentor, Louie Bellson, with the playful "If I Were A Bellson."

"Airmail Special" is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of jazz history, a love letter to the genre's rich heritage, and a showcase of Louie Bellson's immense talent. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let the big band magic of Louie Bellson and his fellow jazz greats transport you to a bygone era of swing and sophistication.

1 januari 1990

(P) 1990 Amerco, LLC.

About Louie Bellson

Louie Bellson, born Louis but preferring the spelling Louie, was a trailblazing American jazz drummer renowned for his virtuosity and innovation. He is celebrated for pioneering the use of two bass drums, a technique that revolutionized jazz drumming. Bellson's career spanned decades, during which he played with legendary big bands, including those led by Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, and Count Basie. His time with Duke Ellington, though brief, left a lasting impact, earning him the title of the "last of the great Ellingtonians" from the maestro himself. Beyond his drumming prowess, Bellson was a gifted composer, arranger, and bandleader, known for his far-ranging compositional skills and remarkable instrumental virtuosity. His collaborations with jazz greats and his contributions to the genre have solidified his legacy as one of the most heralded jazz drummers of all time. Bellson's influence extends beyond music, as he also appeared in TV shows and movies, and even wrote the theme song for "The Ed Sullivan Show." His innovative spirit and musical talent continue to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike.