The Complete Town Hall Concert 1947

One of the key turning points of Louis Armstrong's career occurred at the Town Hall concert fully documented on this two-CD set, a reissue of the earlier two-LP release. Armstrong, who had been leading a big band for 18 years, was showcased with some musical friends who were all very complementary players (including trombonist Jack Teagarden, clarinetist Peanuts Hucko and cornetist Bobby Hackett), and the results were so exciting that Armstrong soon broke up his orchestra to form a similar all-star sextet. The recording quality of some of the numbers from this concert is erratic but the magic of the music definitely comes through. Highlights include a few tunes on which Louis is backed by just a rhythm section (including "Cornet Chop Suey" and an emotional "Dear Old Southland"), definitive versions of "Ain't Misbehavin" and "Back O'Town Blues" and a memorable feature for Jack Teagarden on "St. James Infirmary." Recommended for all Louis Armstrong fans who wish to hear the real birth of his All-Stars. ~ Scott Yanow|