Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of jazz with Marian McPartland's "Plays The Music Of Billy Strayhorn," released on July 31, 1987, under the Concord Jazz label. This cool jazz gem spans a concise yet captivating 45 minutes, featuring ten tracks that showcase McPartland's mastery of the piano and her deep reverence for the compositions of Billy Strayhorn.
The album opens with "Intimacy Of The Blues," setting the tone for a journey through Strayhorn's rich musical landscape. Each track, from the exotic allure of "Isfahan" to the dreamy "Day Dream," is a testament to Strayhorn's genius and McPartland's interpretive prowess. The standout "Lush Life" is a poignant rendition that highlights McPartland's ability to convey deep emotion through her playing.
McPartland's rendition of "Take The 'A' Train," a Strayhorn classic, is a standout, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved jazz standard. The album closes with "After All," leaving the listener with a sense of satisfaction and a desire to revisit the enchanting world of Strayhorn's compositions as interpreted by Marian McPartland. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a delightful exploration of the enduring appeal of cool jazz.