The Atomic Mr. Basie (E=MC²), Count Basie, 1957

Producer: Teddy Reig
Recorded: October 1957
Length: 39:30
Label: Roulette

I'm formulating a theory about the 1950s jazz albums chosen for this list. Every one of them, up to this point, have been recordings by artists whose halcyon days are in the past. Duke and now Count Basie both were much bigger years in previous years, but their albums that appear on the 1001 were the ones that thrust them back into the public's eye and cemented their places in jazz history. Even the Frank Sinatra albums were considered comebacks of a sort. Looking forward, the Thelonious Monk album is the same. I'm not sure the writers of the book were consciously making that decision; it's just something I noticed.

As for the Count here. Pretty tight jazz album. I can hear some bop influence, especially on the faster numbers, but nothing astronomical on this one for me. Is it enjoyable? Sure. And I've listened to it a number of times in the past week (check out my Last.fm profile for the proof), it just wouldn't find it's place in my all-time favorites.

Like the Sinatra albums, the arranger here should get due credit. Neal Hefti does a great job of putting together some smokin' tracks. The instrumentalists are jammin' too. I can dig it, just not as "atomic" as the title purports.

Rating: 3.5/5.0

Faves

The Kid from Red Bank
Smokin' joint. I really enjoy up-tempo jazz numbers and this one does not disappoint
Whirly-Bird
The high point on the album. The trumpets soar and the bass line rolls on and on. I have immense respect for a guy who can fly through an upright bass like this without stopping for a break. Props'.

Tags » 1950s Big Band Jazz fun

23 August 2010
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1001 Albums