Record Reviews

AL JARREAU ~ WOW!: LIVE AT THE CHILDE HAROLD RESONANCE 2075 (Barcode: 617270123171) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1976 Released: 2024 This is an archival live album by American Jazz vocalist / songwriter Al JarreauFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1976 at the legendary Washington D.C. venue Childe Harold, in an intimate climate with Jarreau accompanied only by an electric piano trio, which comprised of pianist Tom CanningFind albums by this artist, bassist Ben AtkinFind albums by this artist and drummer Tom DrakeFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, seven of which are original songs by Jarreau and for are his unique interpretations of songs b others, including two Jazz standards and two Pop songs, one each by James TaylorFind albums by this artist and Leon RussellFind albums by this artist. The performance followed the release of his 2nd album “GlowFind albums with this title” and includes material from that album, as well as from the debut album “We Got ByFind albums with this title”. The album is accompanied by an extensive booklet, which interviews and background information, as is usual the case with the ResonanceFind albums on this label label releases. The performance is absolutely sensational and presents perfectly the early period of Jarreau’s early career, when his singing consisted primarily of a unique form of improvised vocalese, which was simply divine. His interpretation of Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist’s “Take Five”, which is present here, illustrates that technique perfectly and I remember hearing him performing it live, it knocked me out completely. He was also blessed with an incredible sense of humor, which dominated his live concerts. The album also portrays the superb songwriting talent of Jarreau, which often was overlooked in view of his performing strength. This live recording is a beautiful tribute to Jarreau’s legacy and his tragically premature demise robbed the music lovers of his charm and incredible talent. Overall, this is a charming a most valuable document of the early period of Jarreau’s career, with the music performed in an intimate climate and perfectly recorded, for us to enjoy. It is definitely one of the best live albums in his recorded legacy. Not to be missed!

Updated: 18/05/2025Posted: 18/05/2025

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