Barney Kessel - Just what the Dr. Ordered!
Because Fridays need some jazz!
As I stew in the consequences of Tuesday’s election, and trying to avoid the blame game, I am stretching out into Music YouTube, and today the lords of the Algorithm bring me a new face and more importantly a new sound.
Barney Kessel was a largely self-taught jazz guitarist, who brought a open and lively phrasing to every track I have clicked on. The introduction was Autumn Leaves, but the second video I clicked on really grabbed my attention. Titled simply “Barney Kessel Blues” it is (for the era) well shot video, but the audio is impeccable.
On a stage with his band, a classic trio, Barney lets it hang out and boy is it smooooooth. Awesome phrasing, clean intermediaries, and a sense of touch that is just delightful to listen to.
Just what I needed on a chilly Friday morning.
That was great piece of music to start the day. I searched him a little and he played in a band with Chico Marx at one time. Barney must’ve had an interesting life.
So good. That song falls into the category I call “sneaky jazz”.