"Summit Reunion Plays Some Al Jolson Songs" by Kenny Davern is a delightful journey through the golden age of American music, released on January 1, 2000, by Jazzology. This album is a testament to Kenny Davern's virtuosity and his deep respect for the rich musical heritage of the early 20th century. The album features a collection of timeless songs popularized by Al Jolson, a legendary figure in American entertainment history.
Spanning a generous 61 minutes, the album includes 17 tracks that showcase Davern's mastery of the clarinet, a instrument that was central to the sound of early jazz and popular music. The tracklist is a who's who of classic tunes, from the upbeat "California, Here I Come" and "Rock-a-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody" to the poignant ballads like "April Showers" and "Avalon." Each song is performed with a level of skill and authenticity that transports the listener back to the era when these songs were first captivating audiences.
The album's production quality is top-notch, with each note and nuance of Davern's performance captured beautifully. Whether you're a fan of classic jazz, early American popular music, or simply appreciate exceptional musicianship, "Summit Reunion Plays Some Al Jolson Songs" is an album that deserves a place in your collection. It's a celebration of a bygone era, brought to life by one of the most respected clarinetists of our time.