This was the first time I’ve ever knowingly listened to Count Bassie, who was an incredibly influential jazz musician in the 40’s and 50’s. The Atomic Mr. Bassie is considered one of the best albums of his career (keep in mind Basie’s career apex occurred before the business of recording music professionally really took off) for its distinct fusion of Big Band and Jazz together in one sound. It brought home two awards at the 1st Annual Grammy Awards.
As a 35-year old living in the year 2023 it’s safe to say I don’t hear much Big Band jazz fusion music being played at parties. But then I got to thinking— why the heck not? This is fun music with great energy and wonderful musicianship. I’m going to work it into the repertoire.
Standout Songs: “Splanky”, “Fantail”
