Dive into the vibrant world of classic jazz with Jimmy McPartland's "Shades of Bix," a captivating album released on July 25, 2019, under The M.D. Music Company Limited. This collection is a celebration of the big band and ragtime genres, offering a rich, 78-minute journey through timeless tunes and energetic performances.
Jimmy McPartland, a renowned trumpeter, leads an ensemble of jazz legends, including Jack Teagarden on trombone, Pee Wee Russell on clarinet, Bud Freeman on tenor saxophone, Joe Sullivan on piano, Eddie Condon on guitar, and Bob Haggart on bass. Together, they bring to life a diverse set of tracks, from the lively "Clarinet Marmalade" and "Riverboat Shuffle" to the soulful "What Is There to Say" and "Rose Room."
The album is a tribute to the influential Bix Beiderbecke, capturing the spirit and innovation of the early jazz era. With a mix of upbeat numbers like "Ostrich Walk" and "Panama," and slower, more melodic pieces such as "In a Mist" and "With a Song in My Heart," "Shades of Bix" showcases the versatility and skill of McPartland and his bandmates. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, this album is a delightful exploration of the music that defined an era.