Beatles Albums Jazzed Up- February 2018
There are several good jazz Beatles compilations and artists who have put out albums that are solely Beatles songs. In no particular order…
Lisa Lauren- Loves The Beatles
Just recently discovered this and absolutely love it! Even if you never heard of the Beatles this is a great album.
The Hot Club of San Francisco- John, Paul, George and Django
Released last year. As you can tell, Django style Beatles, both vocals (one in French) and instrumentals.
Connie Evingson- Let It Be Jazz
Not the strongest album but a nice variety of songs. Kinda grows on you.
Michael Occhipinti & Shine On- The Universe of Lennon
A Canadian band geared toward Lennon’s songs. Great versions of Rain, I Am the Walrus and I’m Only Sleeping.
Count Basie- Basie’s Beatle Bag- 1966 and On the Beatles- 1969
They somewhat reluctantly did a total Beatles album and it worked out so well they did another. Typical swingin’ Basie style.
Keely Smith- Sings the John Lennon Paul McCartney Songbook
She just passed away recently. Known for some of her work with Louis Prima. Just found this- looks like it was just a re-release last year. Some sappy, some classy.
Al Di Meola- All Your Life
Who would’ve thought? All solo guitar.
San Francisco String Trio- May I Introduce to You
Just released last year. They do the entire Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band with a mixture of vocals and instrumentals. Kind of wish they had done them in order.
Ramsey Lewis- Plays the Beatles Songbook
Typical Ramsey style but with some odd intros. There are some better songs from various compilations.
As for compilations:
The Beatles In Jazz- a 2 CD set of European jazz artists.
The Number 1 Jazz Beatles Album by Verve.
Blue Note Plays the Beatles.
Other compilations seem so-so with some smooth jazz versions mixed in. Other songs I just happen to find. Hope this helps all you Beatles/Jazz fans! Please let me know if you know of any other good albums.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
