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Customer Reviews
The number and variety of tracks far exceeded my expectations. There are 24 tracks ranging from technically mastered classical (i.e. Bolero and Hungarian Dance #6) to soulful sassy and bluesy (i.e. Duke Ellington Selection, George Gershwin Selection, St. Louis Blues, Blues in the Night, Stormy Weather,etc., etc., etc., etc.)
Hand to Mouth Boogie, of Adler's own composition, is exceptional and has me wishing only that there were more Adler tunes here.
A couple notes on what I learned of Adler's style. I have read literature which exaggerated his ability to transform the harmonica into other instruments. Yes, he achieves the brass and string sounds as well or better than any other "harp" player I've heard (all of which are deftly demonstrated in Rhapsody in Blue). His range is superior. However he is clearly playing the harmonica. There is muted wa-wa-style comedy in much of the jazzy numbers, and infrequent raspy chords (to Adler's credit). Adler is clearly having fun. His playing seems faultless yet comfortable, not at all forced. I applaud his ability to play and bend the high notes equally as well as the low. He plays every note of the scale without any hint of restriction. He doesn't hide the harmonica. He elevates its capabilities.
I think harmonica lovers will love this cd repeatedly as I have, including blues fans. However, others may be truly entertained in one sitting, and then tire of the emphasis on harmonica.
This CD contains a nice selection of recordings that Adler made during the 1930's. Mostly pop tunes, this collection also features his landmark recordings of Gershwin's "Rhapsody In Blue" and Ravel's "Bolero". Both of these recordings inspired rave kudos from the composers.
The only drawback to Adler's 1930's recordings are brought about by recording limitations of the era. Fidelity is limited and recordings were all too short in length. Overall though, these recordings are amazing to listen to. Adler's showmanship coupled with his technical expertise is equal to any other master instrumentalist that has recorded during the 20th century.
I strongly recommend this CD.
A wonderful collection of songs featuring excellent arrangements and Class A playing all around. While jazzy and bluesy in turns (and also exemplifying the "pop" music of the era) some of this collection might be described as "easy listening." I never thought I would find so much enjoyment from such a thing, but this CD has been in constant rotation around my place.
I have to agree with one of the other reviewers who touted Adler as one of the finest instrumentalists--on any instrument--ever. It's astonishing what he can do with that little mouth organ. Adler also knows when not to play. He frequently sits back and lets other instruments have some room. He had a great feel for dynamics and style.
It is true that these recordings are from the 1930s and don't have the same sort of fidelity of sound most listeners are accustomed to today, but to me that adds to the charm of this disc. I am so glad these tracks were preserved. They deserve another reissue!
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