Bud's Beautiful (1996)

About this title: An extremely well-done trio CD covering 11 of Bud Powell's tunes, including both well-known and infrequently heard songs. LaVerne's run through "Celia" showcases his dazzling technique, while he's equal to handling the low-key ballad "I'll Keep Loving You," which is given a slight samba flavor. The creative juices also flow in LaVerne's approach to combining tunes: "So Sorry Please" is interwoven with "In the Mood for a Classic," while similar treatments of "Bouncing With Bud" and "Bud's Bubble" (aka "Little Benny") are equally successful. Bassist Peter Washington and drummer Billy Hart round ... read more

Tracks:

1. Celia [Powell]
2. Danceland [Powell]
3. I'll Keep Loving You [Powell]
4. So Sorry, Please/In the Mood for a Classic [Powell]
5. Bouncing with Bud's Bubble [Powell]
6. Duid Deed [Powell]
7. Bud's Beautiful [Laverne]
8. Topsy Turvey [Powell]
9. Strictly Confidential [Powell]
10. Cleopatra's Dance [Powell]
11. Oblivion [Powell]
12. Boderick [Powell]

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