Artie Shaw – Stardust (22 Original Hits)

Artie Shaw – Stardust (22 Original Hits)

Artie Shaw – Stardust (22 Original Hits) brings together 22 classic performances from one of the defining bandleaders of the Swing Era. A virtuoso clarinettist as well as a pioneering big-band leader, Shaw helped shape the sophisticated, highly arranged sound of American swing during the late 1930s and early 1940s, when his orchestra ranked among the most popular dance bands in the United States.

The collection opens with the exuberant “Begin The Beguine” and the atmospheric “Stardust,” two performances closely associated with Shaw's enduring reputation. The programme continues with standards including “Indian Love Call,” “Deep Purple,” “Moonglow,” “April In Paris,” “'S Wonderful” and “What Is This Thing Called Love,” showcasing the orchestra's ability to combine elegant arrangements with the rhythmic energy of classic swing.

There is plenty here for listeners who enjoy the more driving side of big-band jazz. “Summit Ridge Drive,” “Back Bay Shuffle,” “Special Delivery Stamp” and “Traffic Jam” showcase Shaw's fast-moving arrangements and virtuosic ensemble playing, while “Deep In A Dream,” “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” and “Dancing In The Dark” reveal the smoother, romantic side of his repertoire.

The collection also demonstrates Shaw's willingness to explore material beyond straightforward dance-band swing. “St. James Infirmary,” “Jungle Drums,” “Nightmare” and “Frenesi” bring blues, Latin and darker jazz influences into the programme, while “Concerto For Clarinet” provides an especially strong showcase for Shaw's musicianship and distinctive clarinet playing.

The recordings represented here principally date from the late 1930s and early 1940s, the height of the Swing Era. Shaw was part of the extraordinary generation of bandleaders that included Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey, helping establish the big band as one of the dominant forces in American popular music. His 1940 recording of “Stardust” remains one of the best-known examples of his polished orchestral style.

For fans of Artie Shaw, classic swing, big-band jazz, clarinet jazz, vintage dance bands and traditional American popular music, Stardust (22 Original Hits) offers an enjoyable collection of sophisticated performances from the golden age of swing.

Tracklist

1. Begin The Beguine
2. Stardust
3. Indian Love Call
4. Deep Purple
5. Summit Ridge Drive
6. Moonglow
7. St. James Infirmary
8. Jungle Drums
9. April In Paris
10. 'S Wonderful
11. Back Bay Shuffle
12. Special Delivery Stamp
13. What Is This Thing Called Love
14. Temptation
15. Nightmare
16. Frenesi
17. Concerto For Clarinet
18. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
19. Traffic Jam
20. Deep In A Dream
21. Thanks For Everything
22. Dancing In The Dark