Chet Baker's 'Blue Room: The 1979 Vara Studio Sessions in Holland' is a captivating collection of jazz recordings, expertly captured in stereo at the legendary Vara Studio 2 in Hilversum, the Netherlands. This sublime album features two studio sessions, one from April 10th with pianist Phil Markowitz, bassist Jean-Louis Rassinfosse, and drummer Charles Rice, and another from November 9th with pianist Frans Elsen, bassist Victor Kaihatu, and drummer. The result is a masterclass in cool jazz, with Chet Baker's inimitable trumpet sound and vocals taking centre stage.
The album kicks off with the Latin-swaying 'Beautiful Black Eyes', introducing Baker's distinctive trumpet phrasing, which is at once drowsy and impulsive. The tracklist is a veritable treasure trove of jazz gems, including 'Oh, You Crazy Moon', 'The Best Thing For You', and 'Blue Room', showcasing Baker's unique ability to breathe new life into timeless standards.
Released on April 28, 2023, via Elemental Music Records SL, 'Blue Room: The 1979 Vara Studio Sessions in Holland' is a welcome addition to Chet Baker's legacy. The album has been meticulously remastered, with crisp tonality and excellent stereo separation, making it a must-have for fans of vocal jazz and cool jazz. With its elegant gatefold jacket and accompanying booklet featuring vintage black and white photographs, essays, and interviews, this release is a testament to the enduring power of Chet Baker's music.
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