Louis Armstrong - Louis Armstrong Plays W. C. Handy (1954) [Hi-Res]

This recording was not only Louis Armstrong's finest record of the 1950s but one of the truly classic jazz sets. Armstrong and his All-Stars (trombonist Trummy Young, clarinetist Barney Bigard, pianist Billy Kyle, bassist Arvell Shaw, drummer Barrett Deems, and singer Velma Middleton) were clearly inspired by the fresh repertoire, 11 songs written by W.C. Handy. Their nearly nine-minute version of "St. Louis Blues" -- with witty vocals, roaring Young trombone, and a couple of long majestic trumpet solos -- is arguably the greatest version of the oft-recorded song. Other highlights include "Loveless Love," "Beale Street Blues," and a romping version of "Ole Miss Blues." Essential music for all serious jazz collections. [Some reissues also include rehearsal versions of three songs, Louis Armstrong telling a joke, and a brief George Avakian interview with W.C. Handy.]



Tracklist:
1.01 - Louis Armstrong - St. Louis Blues (8:55)
1.02 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Yellow Dog Blues (4:20)
1.03 - Louis Armstrong - Loveless Love (4:32)
1.04 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Aunt Hagar's Blues (5:02)
1.05 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Long Gone (From the Bowlin' Green) (5:14)
1.06 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - The Memphis Blues (Or Mister Crump) (3:05)
1.07 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Beale Street Blues (5:01)
1.08 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Ole Miss Blues (3:29)
1.09 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Chantez les bas (Sing 'Em Low) (4:54)
1.10 - Louis Armstrong - Hesitating Blues (5:26)
1.11 - Louis Armstrong & His All Stars - Atlanta Blues (Make Me One Pallet On Your Floor) (4:34)