Lionel Hampton Hamp's Big Band Play

The first twelve tracks on this selection feature Lionel and his Big Band. With solid harmonies, full tonal texture and squared off rhythms. Lionel Hampton lifts his famous style to new heights with greater emphasis to harmonic design. This is apparent in selections like "Big Brass", "Night Train" and "Airmail Special". At moments the total effect is almost hypnotic and this is especially so on "Cutter's Corner", "Le Chat Noir" and "Hamp's Boogie Woogie". Not every Jazz musician can express himself passionately and equally well on more than one instrument, the secret is improvisation, and it is here that Lionel Hampton is truly gifted and he excels on performances of "Blues For Stephen", "And The Angels Sing", "Lazy Thoughts" and the seminal "Lullaby Of Birdland". There are moments when the rhythms are so powerfully dynamic in force and the resulting mosaic of sound is truly overwhelming in its intensity. This is a must for Jazz fans!