Harry Edison Swings Buck Clayton

"Harry Edison Swings Buck Clayton" is a delightful collection of swing music that showcases the masterful interplay between two jazz legends, Buck Clayton and Harry Edison. Released in 2011 by Avid Entertainment, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of big band and hard bop genres. The album features six remastered tracks, each a gem in its own right, with a total duration of 39 minutes that will leave you craving for more.

The album opens with "Memories for the Count," setting the stage for a journey through classic jazz standards. "Come with Me" and "Critic's Delight" are standout tracks that highlight the virtuosity of both Clayton and Edison, while "Oh How I Hate to Get up in the Afternoon" adds a touch of whimsy to the collection. The medley "It All Depends on You / Charmaine / How Long Has This Been Going On / Makin' Whoopee" is a delightful conclusion to the album, showcasing the musicians' versatility and skill.

This album is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of a bygone era of jazz, brought to life by two of its most talented practitioners. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Harry Edison Swings Buck Clayton" is sure to captivate and inspire. The album's remastered sound quality ensures that every note and nuance is crystal clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry of Buck Clayton and Harry Edison.

Buck Clayton, born Wilbur Dorsey Clayton, was a towering figure in the world of jazz, renowned for his mastery of the trumpet and his significant contributions as a bandleader, composer, and arranger. Hailing from Kansas City, Clayton's career took off when he joined Count Basie's orchestra in 1936, quickly establishing himself as one of the pre-eminent trumpet players of the swing era. His distinctive style, heavily influenced by the legendary Louis Armstrong, made him a standout in the competitive jazz scene of the 1930s.

Throughout his illustrious career, Clayton played with some of the greatest names in jazz, including Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and Benny Goodman. He led his own bands, notably in Shanghai, where he influenced the development of Chinese pop music. Clayton's compositions and arrangements added depth to the Count Basie Orchestra's repertoire, and his recordings with the Basie band remain classics of the genre.

In the post-swing era, Clayton continued to innovate, working with traditional jazz musicians and even touring extensively in the 1980s, despite facing health challenges that limited his trumpet playing. His legacy endures through his recordings and his influence on generations of musicians, making Buck Clayton a beloved and enduring figure in the history of jazz.