Classic Be-Bop, Vol. 1 (1997)

About this title: Designed as an introductory sampler to early bebop, this CD has good intentions. Two errors should be pointed out: this rendition of Charlie Parker's "Ko Ko" is not the famous 1945 studio rendition but is taken from a 1948 broadcast, and Sarah Vaughan's "Nice Work If You Can Get It" (with Miles Davis) is from 1950, not 1945. Music-wise, there are quite a few gems among the dozen performances, and even if the selections are not in chronological or even necessarily logical order (so they would probably would not convert many detractors), it is enjoyable to hear these innovative performances. ... read more

Tracks:

1. Groovin' High [Gillespie]
2. Bebop [Gillespie]
3. Epistrophy [Clarke/Monk]
4. Serenade to a Square [Powell]
5. Koko [Parker]
6. Opus X [Malachi]
7. Mad Be Bop [Johnson]
8. Nice Work If You Can Get It [Gershwin/Gershwin]
9. Sonny Side [Stitt]
10. The Chase [Gordon/Gray]
11. Bouncing with Bud [Fuller/Powell]
12. Things to Come [Gillespie/Fuller]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.