"The Poll Winners Ride Again!" is a delightful journey into the world of cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, featuring the legendary Barney Kessel on guitar, accompanied by the incomparable Shelly Manne on drums and Ray Brown on bass. Originally released in 1959, this reissue brings back the magic of this iconic trio, who were hailed as poll winners in prestigious magazines like Down Beat, Playboy, and Metronome.
This album, released on the CoolNote label, is a testament to the timeless appeal of jazz. With a runtime of just over 41 minutes, it packs a punch with nine tracks that showcase the trio's exceptional musicianship and chemistry. From the playful "Be Deedle Dee Do" to the classic "Volare" and the whimsical "Custard Puff," each song is a masterclass in jazz improvisation and composition.
Barney Kessel's guitar work is as smooth as ever, complementing Shelly Manne's dynamic drumming and Ray Brown's solid bass lines. The album also features a mix of standards and originals, including "Spring Is Here," "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top," and "Angel Eyes," each track offering a unique perspective on the jazz genre.
Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Poll Winners Ride Again!" is sure to captivate with its rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and the sheer joy of live jazz performance. This album is a celebration of jazz at its finest, and a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of Barney Kessel, Shelly Manne, and Ray Brown.
Vinylscout